Safer Streets Coming Soon to Carson Elementary

More visible, more accessible, and more student-friendly crosswalks are on the way near Carson Elementary, thanks to a coordinated effort between Pierce County and the Puyallup School District. Construction preparation is already underway for the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at key crossing points, one more step toward ensuring students have safer, more reliable routes to and from school. 

The safety enhancements at Carson are part of a larger, district-wide push supported by the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program and funding from Pierce County. This summer’s projects include crosswalk upgrades near Carson, Brouillet, Dessie Evans, and along 136th Street East near Ballou Junior High and Firgrove Elementary. 

The work near Carson is funded by a grant secured by Pierce County, with construction managed by the county as part of its 2025 RRFB School Crossing Program. Once installed, the County will maintain the RRFB system while the district oversees the associated school zone beacon equipment in compliance with federal and local safety standards. 

“This is the kind of partnership that has real, lasting impact,” said Brian Devereux, Director of Facilities Planning. “We're grateful to Pierce County for taking action and helping us create safer walk zones for students and families.” 

This work represents a shared commitment to proactive safety investments, with projects designed to improve driver visibility, accessibility, and awareness in school zones. These crosswalk improvements are another important piece of the district’s broader strategy to protect students and enhance the walkability of neighborhoods surrounding our schools. 

To learn more about this work, visit: 
🔗 Carson/Brouillet Crosswalk Project 
🔗 District-Wide Safe Routes Overview