Pedestrians are being urged to "push the button" so the new traffic signal across Hall of Fame in Stillwater can offer them the safety it is designed to ensure. The new signal, installed over spring break, protects pedestrians crossing at Hall of Fame near the Colvin Recreational Center (Cleveland Street) at OSU.

Called HAWK "high intensity activated crosswalk" the signal includes new safety features, but it must be activated by pedestrians. When it is not activated, the signal is blank, so oncoming traffic is not alerted that someone is preparing to cross. However, once the pedestrian button is pushed, the overhead signal begins flashing yellow and then solid yellow, advising drivers to prepare to stop.

The signal then displays a solid red to motorists, and "walk" indication to the pedestrian. Finally, an alternating flashing red signal indicates motorists may proceed when safe after coming to a full stop. The pedestrian is shown a flashing "don't walk" with a countdown indicating the time left to cross.

When properly used by pedestrians, the new traffic signal system has already proven its ability to improve safety, and the Federal Highway Administration has been so impressed that it has launched a program to evaluate the system at locations nationwide.