New HAWK Crossing at Bella Vista Elementary

Dear Cottonwood Heights Community,

We are thrilled to share some significant progress in our ongoing efforts to make our roads safer for everyone. Last Friday, after two years of dedicated advocacy and collaboration with local and state officials, a brand new HAWK (High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk) light system was installed near Bella Vista Elementary School at the intersection of Fort Union Boulevard and Nye Drive. This is a huge win for our community, especially for the safety of our children and pedestrians.

A Community's Victory

The installation of this HAWK light marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward safer streets. This project, funded by the Utah Department of Transportation and supported by a federal grant, was born out of tragedy and a strong community response. Last October, our community was shaken by devastating incidents in the same week. Mainly, a 12-year-old boy was critically injured while using the crosswalk (while holding orange flags) by an impaired driver. This heartbreaking events underscored the urgent need for improved safety measures at this dangerous intersection.

Mayor Mike Weichers highlighted the importance of this new light, noting that while crossing guards and police have helped manage traffic during school hours, the HAWK light will significantly enhance safety during non-school hours. "This is a critical step forward," the Mayor stated, "but it's just the beginning of our efforts to make Cottonwood Heights safer for all."

How the HAWK Signal Works

The HAWK light is different from traditional traffic lights. It only activates when a pedestrian pushes the crossing button, alerting motorists with a sequence of yellow, red, and flashing red lights. This system ensures that drivers are fully aware of pedestrians crossing the road, even during times when school is not in session. It’s a much-needed improvement in a location that has seen too many close calls and tragic accidents.

What’s Next?

Our work doesn’t stop here. As Mayor Weichers mentioned, the installation of this HAWK light is just the beginning. Cottonwood Heights is committed to continuing the expansion of state-of-the-art crosswalk systems throughout the city. We want to ensure that every pedestrian, cyclist, and driver feels safe on our roads.

Maddie Melini, a Save Not Pave board member, a local high school teacher and mother who advocated tirelessly for this project, expressed her gratitude: "Seeing the HAWK light installed is a dream come true for our community. It's proof that when we come together and demand safer streets, we can make it happen."

Join Us in Making a Difference

At Save Not Pave, we believe that every life is precious, and we will continue to advocate for the safety of all road users in Cottonwood Heights. We invite you to join us in our mission. Whether it’s attending city council meetings, volunteering with us, or simply spreading the word, your support makes all the difference.

Thank you for standing with us in this crucial effort. Together, we are making our streets safer, one step at a time.

Save Not Pave
Cottonwood Heights, UT