Manti advances pedestrian crossing at 400 North and readies drought, fireworks safety measures

City staff presented plans for an overhead, lighted pedestrian crossing on 400 North Main Street and told the council the city will participate in power and equipment costs.

City Manager Jason Brown described the design as two perpendicular light arms with push buttons on each side and said construction is anticipated in August or September with a goal to finish before school starts. “We will be providing power. We will be participating in the cost of power companies, those structures,” Brown said, adding the city’s participation was “around $32,000 to $33,500” as an approximate figure.

Council and staff also discussed drought conditions and public-safety implications for July 4 fireworks. The fire chief warned that low secondary-system supply could encourage residents to use culinary water and might lower hydrant pressure during an emergency. Councilmembers discussed potential restrictions from the state and the possibility of permitting fireworks at only one or two locations within city limits if dryness persists. Staff flagged drone safety concerns around fireworks and said federal/forest-service guidance prohibits unapproved drone operations over fires.

Next steps: staff will continue final design and review for the crossing, advance project procurement and monitor water conditions to recommend any necessary restrictions for fireworks and water use as summer approaches.