Willow Fleet Meyer advocates for safer crosswalks after student accidents on Baseline Road

During the Boulder Valley School District Board of Education meeting on December 10, 2024, a significant focus was placed on student safety, particularly regarding crosswalks on Baseline Road. This discussion was prompted by two serious incidents earlier in the fall where students were struck by vehicles while crossing the road.

Willow Fleet Meyer, an 8th grader from Nevin Platt Middle School, addressed the board, sharing her personal experience and the community's response to these accidents. She recounted the fear and concern felt by students and parents following the incidents, which highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures in the area.

In her speech, Willow detailed the proactive steps taken by her community, including the creation of signs urging drivers to slow down and the establishment of a flag system to enhance visibility for crossing students. The local police also increased their presence, issuing 62 speeding tickets in just five days following the accidents, underscoring the seriousness of the traffic issues on Baseline Road, which sees approximately 120,000 vehicles daily.

Willow proposed several future safety initiatives, including lowering the speed limit from 40 to 35 mph, implementing crossing guards during peak school hours, and possibly redesigning the road to a single lane to reduce traffic speed. Her suggestions reflect a broader concern for student safety and community involvement in addressing these critical issues.

The board members expressed their appreciation for Willow's activism and the community's engagement in promoting safety. They also inquired about existing safety features at the crosswalks, indicating a willingness to explore further enhancements to protect students.

This meeting not only highlighted the immediate concerns surrounding student safety but also showcased the power of youth activism in driving community change. As discussions continue, the board's response to these proposals will be crucial in shaping a safer environment for students in the Boulder Valley School District.