Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
The Village of Oak Harbor has been awarded a $10,076 grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to install a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) at the pedestrian crossing at Maple Street and State Route 163.
An RRFB is a pedestrian safety device that uses rapidly flashing LED lights mounted beneath crosswalk signs. When the button is activated by a pedestrian, the lights will alert approaching drivers that someone is preparing to cross the roadway and to stop. Roadway safety research has shown that RRFBs increase driver awareness and improve the safety of crossing pedestrians, particularly when the speed limit is below 40 miles per hour.
The crossing serves as an important connection between neighborhoods south of State Route 163 and key community destinations, including RC Waters Elementary School, Oak Harbor Intermediate School, Veterans Park and downtown Oak Harbor. For many families, the crossing serves as a primary route to schools, parks and community activities.
"State Route 163 was identified by residents and parents as an area where they would like to see additional safety improvements," Oak Harbor mayor Quinton Babcock said. "While we look to complete additional improvements along State Route 163, this is a cost-effective way to make pedestrians safer near our schools and parks."
Since the village completed its Safe Routes to School Plan in 2025, Oak Harbor officials have submitted several grant applications for projects ranging from crosswalk improvements to sidewalk and shared-use path infrastructure. This grant is the first of those applications to receive funding approval, though village officials remain optimistic about other pending requests.
"This award is encouraging because it validates the need in Oak Harbor and demonstrates that funders believe we have an effective plan to address it," Babcock said. "This improvement will increase visibility at an important crossing and helps create a safer experience for pedestrians and motorists alike. We hope this is the first of several investments that help make walking in Oak Harbor safer and more convenient."
Village officials anticipate the device will be installed this fall.
