Student volunteers launch pedestrian safety campaign

Jeff Evans, vice chancellor for business affairs, Kenneth Paris, Public Safety police lieutenant, and Judy Modelski, assistant to the vice chancellor for business affairs, help Student Government volunteers kick off their pedestrian safety campaign.

“This crosswalk is a new feature. It will take some time and education to ensure that all those driving along Evergreen Road and using the crosswalk will do so in a safe manner,” said Judy Modelski, assistant to the vice chancellor for business affairs. “We tell the students, ‘Every time you hit the crosswalk button, you are helping to train a driver.’”

Approximately 30 students have volunteered to help educate the campus community on how to properly and safely use the crosswalk. Volunteers distribute instructional handouts and caution walkers to be vigilant and aware as they cross Evergreen.

"It is imperative that we, as students, are helping educate other students on the importance of safety on our campus," said Student Government Speaker of the Senate Rima Rida, who organized the campaign. "As a Student Government, we represent the student body and we must fulfill this duty to our utmost capability."

The volunteer campaign is scheduled to run through next week.

As a reminder, the crosswalk signal lights operate as follows:

• All three round lights are normally dark when the system is not in use.
  • Drivers: Proceed if no pedestrians are in crosswalk.
  • Pedestrians: Do not cross. Drivers have the right of way and probably will not stop.
• A pedestrian pushes the button: The system is activated and the bottom light begins as a flashing yellow light.
  • Drivers: Approach with caution. Prepare to stop.
  • Pedestrians: Do not cross.
• The bottom light turns to a steady yellow light just before it turns to the red phase.
  • Drivers: Stop if possible.
  • Pedestrians: Do no cross.
• The two top lights become a steady red. 
  • Drivers: Stop. Do not proceed.
  • Pedestrians: Check for oncoming traffic and cross intersection if safe. Activate the crosswalk signal again in the median/middle of the intersection before proceeding across the other side of Evergreen.
• The two top red lights start alternate flashing just before going dark (when the pedestrian countdown is at 12-11-10...2-1).
  • Drivers: Stop then proceed if clear.
  • Pedestrians: DO NOT CROSS. Press the button and wait for the next crossing cycle to begin again.
• When the system is no longer activated, all three round lights become dark again.
  • Drivers: Proceed if no pedestrians are in crosswalk.
  • Pedestrians: Do not cross. Drivers have the right of way and probably will not stop.