Parents Rally Against Northern Corridor Highway Proposal

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced their concerns regarding proposed changes to traffic patterns in downtown Saint George, particularly around Legacy Elementary School. Judith Ronley, a parent and social scientist, highlighted a Bureau of Land Management proposal to convert 100 South into a four-lane one-way street, which she argued would significantly increase traffic near the school and compromise student safety. Ronley expressed gratitude for the school district's resolution opposing the one-way couplet but emphasized the need for more viable alternatives to the Northern Corridor Highway, such as the Red Hills Parkway Expressway, which has been studied and shown to improve traffic flow without harming local businesses or low-income housing.

Sarah Thomas Claiborne, another parent and community organizer, echoed Ronley's sentiments, advocating for transportation solutions that prioritize the health and safety of children while preserving the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. She noted that many parents support the expressway alternative, which would alleviate traffic congestion while maintaining access to vital open spaces for recreation and education. Claiborne urged the school board to hold a public hearing to provide parents with comprehensive information about the Northern Corridor Highway and its alternatives, enabling informed community participation in planning decisions that affect their children's well-being.

The discussions reflect a growing concern among parents about the implications of traffic changes on student safety and the importance of preserving local natural resources for future generations.