A busy intersection near Eagle View Elementary will be getting a traffic light this spring. According to UDOT spokeswoman Eileen Barron, the traffic signal is being installed to improve safety and improve access from 5750 East to Highway 40. Eagle View Elementary is located on the northwest corner of the intersection and the school administration is thrilled to know that a light will soon be installed. Eagle View Principal Robert Stearmer considers it a miracle that a school bus hasn’t been hit in that intersection. “School buses don’t move as fast as cars do,” shares Stearmer. “The latest accident in that intersection involved a pickup truck being broadsided. Can you imagine that happening to a school bus loaded with 65 children?” This accident involved a vehicle with three children inside the car. While the plans for the light were already in place before the crash this month, the accident has further validated the need to people like Principal Stearmer who consider the intersection a serious danger as it is. The project is being funded through UDOT’s Statewide Signal Program and it is expected to cost about $220,000 dollars. “There will be no additional lanes added to U.S. 40 as there is already a left turn lane,” explains Barron. “However, a separate left turn lane will be added on 5750 East.” Once underway this spring, construction is expected to take two to four weeks. UDOT also plans to install advance warning signals that will flash yellow and include “Prepare to Stop” signs.
