LEHI, Utah (KUTV) – A serious accident involving a child occurred at the intersection of Timpanogos Highway and Center Street on September 2, prompting community calls for increased pedestrian safety.
According to witnesses, a child was struck by a vehicle while using the crosswalk, sustaining broken bones but is reportedly in stable condition. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of this high-traffic area, which connects a middle school and a high school.
Resident Tiffany Barker, who witnessed the event, emphasized the need for a pedestrian bridge to improve safety for children crossing the highway. “The boy was obeying the law when he was hit,” Barker said, adding that conditions make it dangerous for pedestrians, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Lehi City Council member Michelle Stallings confirmed that local officials have recognized the issue for several years. “It's a state highway and was never meant to be a crosswalk,” she said. Stallings noted that the area is seeing increased development, including new stores and a temple, which could lead to higher traffic volumes.
The Mountainland Association of Governments has allocated over $4 million towards the estimated $9 million project. Stallings mentioned the importance of community support to secure additional funding from the Utah Department of Transportation.
Officials urge residents to advocate for the project. Barker stated, “What is it going to cost? Is it going to cost a life before we start to listen?”
Both Barker and Stallings are hopeful for a decision on the funding by year-end, emphasizing the urgent need for a safer crossing.