During a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical safety measures for school zones, emphasizing the need for compliance with traffic regulations and improved pedestrian safety. Gary Harvey highlighted the current challenges at various intersections near schools, particularly at Kings Peak and the junior high school, where crosswalks and safety personnel are lacking.
The discussion revealed that while the law does not mandate a crosswalk attendant at certain locations, the community recognizes the necessity for one, especially during peak school hours. The principal of the junior high proposed hiring a school aide to manage crosswalk duties, a model that could potentially be replicated at other schools to ensure student safety.
Concerns were raised about the adequacy of existing crosswalks, with officials noting that some locations have multiple crosswalks but only one is staffed. The need for speed reduction measures and traffic lights was also discussed, as current conditions pose risks to students, particularly after school.
The city plans to collaborate with the school board to assess safety needs and gather public input on proposed changes. This initiative aims to enhance safety protocols and potentially allocate funds for engineering studies to evaluate necessary improvements.
In addition to school safety, the meeting touched on the rising number of police calls, with officials noting a decrease in overall crime rates despite the increase in incidents. The police department was commended for its proactive approach to community safety.
Lastly, the Utah Division of Drinking Water announced a survey to assess service lines in homes, part of a state mandate to identify potential lead and copper issues. Homeowners will be notified about the survey, which begins on October 7, ensuring transparency and public awareness regarding water safety measures.