Richmond installs audible beacon devices to improve pedestrian safety

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond has launched a pilot program aimed at improving pedestrian safety following a string of deadly pedestrian crashes earlier this year.

The Richmond Department of Transportation (RDOT) recently rolled out a safety initiative that it said will enhance safety access for pedestrians of all ages and abilities when crossing busy intersections. Under the program, the city has installed audible beacon devices at the intersection of 10th and Marshall streets.

The devices are attached directly to the existing pedestrian countdown signals. Each device will provide auditory guidance and announce when the "walk" signal is active and vice versa. During the "don't walk" phase, the device will emit a repeated sound to alert walkers that the crossing time is ending, per a release.

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The pilot program is a collaborative effort between the RDOT, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and VCU Health System to reduce walking risks in high-traffic areas near downtown campuses and medical facilities, the release said. The city looks to install these devices at other high-volume locations following a successful evaluation period.

The pilot program's announcement came after the city recorded seven deadly pedestrian crashes in the span of about eight weeks, between Dec. 25, 2025, and Feb. 16. Seven people were killed in these crashes, including The Valentine's director Bill Martin and 23-year-old Hope Cartwright, an editor at Richmond-based Virginia Living magazine.