Campbell explains how new HAWK beacon works at Harriet and McCoy to help pedestrians

A presenter for the city of Campbell outlined how the city’s first HAWK (high‑intensity activated crosswalk) beacon at Harriet and McCoy works and what drivers and pedestrians should do when it activates.

The HAWK — described in the message as a device that "stays dark until you need it, giving pedestrians a safe way to cross the street" — was installed by the city to improve safety at busy intersections near Forest Hill Elementary and Westmont High, the presenter said.

On driver behavior, the presenter gave specific guidance: "As a driver, when a flashing yellow light appears at the beacon, slow down and caution as the pedestrian has activated the push button. At a steady yellow light, prepare to stop the crosswalk and at a steady red light, drivers must stop as pedestrians can now start crossing." The video added: "When the beacon turns flashing red lights, drivers stop first, then proceed if no pedestrians are present. Pedestrians should finish crossing the street before driving forward."

Pedestrians were told to "approach the crosswalk and press the button. Wait. Look both ways as the beacon activates a sequence that tells drivers to stop and give you the time to cross." The presenter advised that if a pedestrian arrives just as the countdown begins, they should "wait for the next cycle to begin."

The message also clarified the beacon’s inactive state: "When the HAWK is dark, this means the beacon is turned off. Drivers can proceed without stopping, but still watch for pedestrians." The presenter closed with a reminder to users to be alert and patient: "Be alert, be patient, be safe, and let's keep Campbell moving safely."