Safer Streets Ahead: Puyallup School District and Pierce County Partner on Summer Crosswalk Upgrades Near Schools

Students walking to and from several Puyallup schools will soon benefit from safer street crossings, thanks to upcoming construction projects funded in part by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program. 

This summer, a series of improvements will break ground across key areas in the district—most notably along 136th Street East in front of Ballou Junior High School, which also serves Firgrove Elementary students in its walk zone. Improvements will include the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), flashing school zone beacons, ADA-compliant curb ramp upgrades, and lighting enhancements to increase visibility and driver awareness during school commute hours.  

The $277,000 SRTS grant funding for these improvements was secured in 2022—prior to the passage of the recent levy—as part of a long-term commitment to student safety. The grant specifically funds the Ballou/Firgrove improvements on 136th Street East. The district has committed an additional $30,000 to support the project. 

In addition to this work, the district is also moving forward with RRFB installations near Dessie Evans Elementary, Brouillet Elementary, and Carson Elementary. These safety enhancements are being delivered in collaboration with Pierce County. Pierce County secured a separate grant for the Carson and Brouillet RRFBs. The Dessie Evans installation—expected to occur early this summer—will receive a $15,000 contribution from the County, with most costs covered by the district. 

“This work is about more than just flashing lights—it’s about making sure every student has a safer path to school,” said Brian Devereux, Director of Facilities Planning for the Puyallup School District. “We’re proud to be working with Pierce County to take real steps toward safer, more accessible neighborhoods.” 

Upon completion, Pierce County will assume ownership and maintenance of the RRFBs, while the district will manage the flashing school zone beacons in accordance with federal and local safety standards. 

Construction has started, marking a significant milestone in the district’s ongoing commitment to student safety.  

Learn more about these projects on Pierce County’s website:  

• 136th St E - https://www.piercecountywa.gov/8426/Safe-Routes-to-School---136th-St-E 
• Carson/Brouillet - https://www.piercecountywa.gov/8323/2025-RRFB-School-Crossing-Program