In the heart of Wasatch County, a pressing discussion unfolded at the recent Transportation Coordinating Committee meeting, focusing on the safety of students at Arlan Elementary School. As the sun streamed through the windows of the meeting room, committee members highlighted the unique challenges faced by this Title I school, where foot traffic significantly outweighs vehicle drop-off traffic.

With over 250 pedestrian crossings each morning and evening, the area around Arlan Elementary is bustling with activity. The school, which serves a diverse student body, sees many children walking from the north and south, creating a vibrant yet potentially hazardous environment. To manage this flow, two crossing guards are stationed at the busiest crosswalks during peak hours, ensuring the safety of the young pedestrians.

However, concerns extend beyond the school day. The committee noted that weekends and after-school hours pose additional risks, as the area remains busy with families and community members. The school also provides breakfast for many students, further increasing morning foot traffic.

Originally, plans for improving safety included salvaging a bridge from a nearby project. However, the committee is now reevaluating these strategies to better address the needs of the school and its surrounding community. As discussions continue, the focus remains on enhancing safety measures to protect the children who traverse this busy area daily. The outcome of these deliberations could significantly impact the well-being of the students and the overall safety of the community.