by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com

Cody Marchant with the Utah Department of Transportation presented to Richfield City Council their findings on a traffic study done to 500 North and Main, where many children cross to travel West to Pahvant Elementary during the school year.

“Here to share an understanding of the changes at 500 N,” said Marchant. “UDOT was approached about the crossing of the intersection, a traffic study was done and determined this to be the best approach to improve pedestrian safety.”

Shown in the plan provided by UDOT includes a pedestrian activated beacon, bubbled corners on both the East and West side of the North part of the intersection, designated turning lanes, as well as a median on the North side turning lane for 100 feet prior to the intersection.

“It makes sense to add a pedestrian activated beacon, to let traffic know there are individuals ready to cross,” said Marchant. “The flashing beacons, can be used during the school zone crossing and not, making it useful for all pedestrian not just school children.”

Marchant also explained that the beacon will be programmed to have the beacon light last longer before and after school hours to allow children the extra time to cross safely.

“I am all for this plan,” said Mayor Burrows. He expressed the importance of safety and viability for children during school hours.

It was expressed by the council that they were unsure how the crossing guard was ever able to get out into the intersection prior to allow children to cross safely.

UDOT explained that a traffic light is unlikely in the future, unless traffic in this intersection increases by over double in the next five to ten years. Construction is predicted to be completed prior to the start of the 2024-25 school year.