Alt 19/5th Ave North Safety Stimulus Project

Benesch provided concept development and final design services for seven pedestrian hybrid beacon (PHB) crossings along Alt US 19/5th Avenue North in St. Petersburg, Florida. The project supported the City’s bicycle boulevard plan and aimed to improve safety and connectivity for people walking and biking along this busy corridor.

The scope included the design of four new PHB mid-block crossings and the retrofit of three existing rectangular rapid-flashing beacon (RRFB) crossings to meet updated standards. Benesch worked closely with the City of St. Petersburg to conduct a series of public workshops prior to ensure that nearby neighborhoods understood the need for median access modifications to facilitate safer crossings and reduce vehicle speeds.

During final design, Benesch applied NACTO design principles and adapted them to meet FDOT standards, creating crossings that effectively served intersecting bike boulevards. The design incorporated subtle curb extensions and lane narrowing to provide traffic calming and enhance safety at each location.

The project required significant community engagement, cross-disciplinary coordination and an expedited schedule. The resulting improvements advanced the City’s vision for safer, multimodal corridors that balance neighborhood access with pedestrian and bicycle safety.