Crosswalk Yield Checks Enforcement

The SGF Yields pedestrian safety program has significantly increased driver compliance at crosswalks over the years, however, we are not quite there yet. For a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly community, we need all drivers to make yielding at crosswalks a habit. 

National studies through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have shown that crosswalk enforcement activities like Yield Checks can achieve such community change. Therefore, in 2020, and again in 2021, the Springfield Police Department partnered with SGF Yields to apply for a grant through the Missouri Department of Transportation to fund crosswalk enforcement.
The program, with a focus on education and following best practices, was approved for a $21,120 grant.  

How Crosswalk Yield Checks Work

Three police officers will station themselves at a designated crosswalk location for approximately four hours, monitoring for driver compliance. One officer in plain clothing will act as a pedestrian, a second will function as a spotter and a third will be in a patrol car, ready to stop those who do not properly yield to the pedestrian.   

Posted signage will alert drivers that they are approaching a Yield Check location. Those who are stopped will be provided a warning and educational materials. Beginning June 30, drivers may receive citations for blatant violations. Officers may also address any pedestrians that do not follow regulations, providing similar warnings and education to those who put themselves or others at risk.

The public will be notified of upcoming Crosswalk Yield Check locations in advance via news release and social media. Results of the exercise will also be reported to the public.  

Determining Yield Check Locations

Crosswalk Yield Check locations are determined by Springfield Public Works and Springfield Police Department with guidance and input from citizens through the SGF Yields Citizen Action Group. Interested in joining this group? Submit an interest form to SGF Yields. 

The SGF Yields Action Group will review locations and consider any requested locations brought forward by the public. To suggest a crosswalk enforcement location, please email [email protected] .