Residents of Nibley City voiced significant safety concerns regarding recent changes to the 1200 West roadway during a city council meeting. Multiple speakers highlighted the dangers posed by newly installed concrete islands and barriers in bike lanes, which they argue create hazardous conditions for both cyclists and motorists.
Kyle, a local resident, expressed particular worry for his wife, who rides a hand cycle. He noted that the islands obstruct visibility and pose a risk of accidents, especially at the roundabout near 26100 South, where he reported poor lighting and dangerous interactions between vehicles and cyclists. He shared videos demonstrating near-misses and urged the council to reconsider the design for the safety of all users.
Reagan Hoth echoed these sentiments, describing the barriers as a \"balance beam\" for children and a challenge for drivers, particularly larger vehicles. He recounted instances where his daughter nearly encountered accidents while navigating the intersection, emphasizing that community feedback consistently revolves around safety issues.
Jeff Lassiter, a retired police officer, criticized the design as \"asinine,\" stating that it complicates traffic flow and increases the risk of accidents. He warned that the current setup could lead to serious injuries or fatalities, particularly for children and cyclists.
Wade Arden raised concerns about teenage drivers in the area, noting that the tight turns required to exit the subdivision often lead to dangerous situations. He invited council members to experience the challenges firsthand.
Other residents, including Jacob Rigby, highlighted specific incidents involving school buses and children with disabilities, stressing that the barriers complicate safe navigation for larger vehicles and those transporting vulnerable individuals.
Overall, the community's feedback indicates a strong consensus that the current design of 1200 West is inadequate and poses significant safety risks. Residents are calling for immediate reassessment and modifications to ensure the safety of all road users. The city council is expected to address these concerns in future meetings as they seek to balance safety with effective traffic management.