Pocatello Enhances Safety for Students with New Construction Project at Greenacres Elementary
POCATELLO — This summer, construction crews are hard at work at Greenacres as they implement the East Oak Street Child Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project aimed at making the journey to and from Greenacres Elementary School safer for students and staff. The project is situated along a busy stretch of East Oak Street, between Hyde Avenue and North 15th Avenue, directly in front of the school and adjacent to The Pocatello Greenhouse.
Funded by a $250,000 grant from the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council, supplemented by state funds from the Idaho Legislature, this initiative focuses on vital infrastructure upgrades designed to bolster pedestrian safety. "This project was selected because of its proximity to the school and its potential to improve safety for kids walking back and forth to school,” commented Jeff Mansfield, public works director and city engineer for Pocatello.
Improvements will include replacing the existing asphalt on East Oak Street and the school parking lot, adding new sidewalks, curbs, gutters, bulb-outs, and curb ramps, as well as enhancing driveway access points. Modern safety features are also part of the plan, including rectangular rapid flashing beacons, pedestrian crossing signs, and updated pavement markings. The goal is to complete the project by the end of summer, ensuring everything is ready for the upcoming school year.
Although construction is ongoing, pedestrian access will remain open, with city officials committed to minimizing disruptions. Parents are advised to keep children away from construction areas due to ongoing activities and equipment.
"We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to create a safer environment for our children," said Mansfield, highlighting the importance of these upgrades for the community. For updates on the project, contact the City of Pocatello Engineering Department at (208) 234-6225.
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