Students and city officials have mixed reactions to the flashing pedestrian light set to be installed on Fourth Street sometime this spring.

Mayor Dan Cougill approved the light after several discussions with Student Senate members describing the need for the light.

Cougill said they brought up the issue of Fourth Street believing it to be the most appropriate place for a pedestrian flashing light to help better ensure the safety of students.

He approved the light realizing it could be beneficial to campus.

“I hope (the flashing light) slows people down,” Cougill said. “Hopefully, it will force (cars) to stop for students.”

Bridget Hellwig, a freshman geology major, expressed doubt that cars will stop anymore than they did before.

“I don’t think (the flashing light) will be that effective,” Hellwig said. She said a stop sign would be a more efficient way to guarantee cars stop for students on the street.

Troy Bedard, a junior elementary education major, agreed with Hellwig.

“No, I don’t think (the flashing light) will be effective,” Bedard said.

He also reiterated the Hellwig’s point saying a stop sign for the street would be a safer route for the university to go rather than installing a flashing pedestrian light.

Cougill said the decision to place the flashing light on Fourth Street stemmed from the fact that the majority of students cross that particular street to get to their residence halls and classes.

“I have driven down the street before and that is where I’ve seen the bulk of students, whether they’re coming form Coleman Hall or their dorms,” Cougill said.