TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Construction is underway on Euclid Avenue and 2nd Street near the University of Arizona to install a pedestrian-hybrid beacon, commonly known as a HAWK light, at one of the busiest and most dangerous crosswalks on campus.
The project follows the tragic deaths of three University of Arizona students who were struck and killed while using the intersection. Their loss ignited months of advocacy from families, students and community members demanding stronger pedestrian protections.
City transportation officials say the new signal will allow pedestrians to activate a red light that forces vehicles to stop before crossing—an upgrade long requested at the location.
Students who navigate the area daily say the intersection has felt unsafe for years. Many described close calls with speeding drivers, particularly after dark.
"A lot of the times, people won't see you crossing, and I know I've almost been hit on that corner probably about three times just because people like don't see you," said Lily Cottam.
Cottam said she has already changed her habits because of fear.
"I feel like I'll definitely use it a lot more, because I tend to avoid crossing here, and I cross down there just because I don't want to get hit, you know," Cottam said.
Another student, Zarek Swetye, said he was cautious even before the fatal crash.
"Well, I'm always worried because people are flying by on the street. You know, I try to put my hand up and maybe step out cautiously, but that doesn't always guarantee your safety," Swetye said.
Since the tragedy, he has altered his route entirely.
"Now I walk down this way and go to the stoplight where it's more--more safe when you can actually stop the cars," Swetye said.
HAWK lights remain dark until a pedestrian presses a button. Once activated, the signal flashes yellow, then turns solid red to stop traffic while people cross. Transportation studies show the system dramatically reduces collisions.
There are already more than 100 HAWK lights across Tucson, and the Federal Highway Administration reports they reduce pedestrian crashes by 69%.
The posted speed limit on Euclid between Speedway and Sixth Avenue is 30 miles per hour, yet neighbors and students say actual driving speeds often feel much higher.
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Crews will work Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Traffic control will only be in place during those hours, and officials say at least one crosswalk will remain open at all times.
The city estimates construction will be completed by May.
This installation marks the first of six planned HAWK lights funded through the Proposition 411 Better Streets | Safe Streets program, a multi-site initiative aimed at protecting pedestrians near schools and transit corridors.
Transportation leaders say the project is about more than one intersection—it’s about rebuilding trust after an avoidable tragedy.
The suspect in the crash that killed the three UA students admitted to drinking before the incident, according to court documents. The case intensified scrutiny on traffic safety around campus, where thousands of students cross busy arterials every day.
Advocacy groups continue to push for lower speed limits, increased lighting, and more enforcement near university housing. City officials say those options remain under review as part of a broader safety study.
Originally reported by Jacqueline Aguilar in KGUN 9.
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