Capital Projects Pursues Additional School Zone Safety Enhancement

The Puyallup School District is currently in the planning process to install additional solar powered rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) and upgraded school-zone flashing speed signage near several schools with funding provided by the 2024 Capital Levy. The work is designed to support safer travel conditions for students, families, staff, and community members during arrival and dismissal times. 

At present, 17 of the district’s 33 schools are supported by school-zone signs displaying a 20 MPH school speed limit with flashing beacons. In addition to five schools with RRFB’s only at crosswalks. The proposed upgrades would expand and modernize safety infrastructure at additional sites. 

Proposed Safety Improvements 

Pending permit approval, planned enhancements include: 

• Installation of new school speed zone flashing beacons 
• Improvement of existing crosswalks with Addition of RRFBs 
• Removal or relocation of outdated signage, where appropriate 

Permitting and design review is planned in partnership with the City of Puyallup and Pierce County, depending on school location.  The three schools located in the City of Edgewood (Edgemont Junior High, Northwood Elementary and Mt. View Elementary) all have school speed zones with flashing beacons operating currently. 

Six elementary and three secondary school sites in the district are currently in the planning process to receive safety improvements. In addition, recent safety improvements were made possible by two grants in partnership with Pierce County.  

• Carson Elementary 
• Ballou Junior High / Firgrove Elementary (136th Street) 
• Brouillet Elementary 

The district recognizes the important role facilities and infrastructure play in student learning and staff support. Goal 5 of the district’s strategic plan focuses on facilities, safety, and security, with an emphasis on maintaining clean, well-maintained, and welcoming environments. 

Maintaining adequate facilities and safe school surroundings is essential to supporting teaching and learning. Through established standards and ongoing coordination with municipal partners, the district continues to prioritize improvements that enhance the physical environment for students and staff. 

What Are Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs)? 

Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons are pedestrian-activated devices installed at crosswalks not associated with a traffic signal. When activated, they emit high-visibility flashing lights to alert drivers that pedestrians are present. Research shows that these systems can improve driver awareness and increase yielding at marked crossings. 

“Safe travel to and from school is a shared responsibility,” said Brian Devereux, Director of Facilities Planning. “These upgrades are part of our ongoing effort to work collaboratively with our city and county partners to enhance visibility and reinforce school-zone safety for our students and families.” 

Next Steps 

During the permitting process, agencies review proposed signage placement, confirm compliance with roadway standards, and approve any sign removals, relocations, or replacements. Once permits are secured, installation timelines will be finalized in coordination with each jurisdiction. 

To learn more about this work, visit: 

• Pierce County Safe Routes to Schools Plan.   
• City of Puyallup plan: https://www.puyallupwa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9742/Safe-Routes-to-School