The Queen Creek Unified School District governing board approved two site-improvement projects at Mountain Trail Academy aimed at improving student access and safety.

District construction staff introduced the projects and said both items were listed on the meeting agenda for approval. Bob Lawson described the first project: a new crosswalk across Mountain Road including ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps and painted crosswalk markings connecting the school to the south corner of Galveston Road. He said the district is coordinating with the Maricopa Department of Transportation on final plans.

On the second project, Lawson said the district will install new bicycle racks that provide "approximately 80 spaces" for bike parking, to be located along the north side of the administration building inside the existing fenced area. District staff said the bike-rack work will be funded by an award from the School Facilities Division and that district operating funds will not be used.

The board moved and approved a contract award to McCarthy Building Companies for the crosswalk improvements and separately approved McCarthy to install the bike racks; both motions were seconded and passed by voice vote.

District staff answered operational questions, noting signage will be supplied and that the district had not been told whether flashing lights would be included. Staff said crossing speed would be reduced to 15 mph in the crossing zone and a crosswalk guard will be on duty.

What's next: With board approval, staff can proceed with procurement and construction coordination with Maricopa DOT and McCarthy Building Companies.