Teton County officials are pushing for enhanced safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians, emphasizing the need for improved data collection and engineering solutions during a recent Town Council Joint Information Meeting. The focus is on fostering better interactions between law enforcement and cyclists, with a call for consistent documentation of these encounters, including positive verbal interactions that often go unrecorded.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of gathering baseline data on accidents and injuries to identify areas for improvement. Officials pointed out that existing data could be better organized to inform future decisions and enhance community safety.

Engineering solutions were also a major topic, with specific attention on high-risk areas such as school zones and problematic highway crossings. The proposal includes advocating for a three-second lead time for pedestrians at crosswalks, particularly at the Maverick Crossing, which has been identified as a hazardous location. This change aims to give pedestrians a head start before traffic moves, potentially reducing accidents.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for improved signage and pathway markings, including the introduction of center lines in congested areas to help maintain order and prevent conflicts among users.

To support these initiatives, officials are requesting an additional $47,000 in funding, building on the $25,000 already allocated. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing safety for all road users in Teton County, with a commitment to ongoing improvements and community advocacy.