Las Vegas Enhances Crosswalk Safety Following Tragic Accident

New safety enhancements implemented in a Las Vegas crosswalk

News Summary

Las Vegas officials are implementing safety improvements to a crosswalk near Arbor View High School after the tragic death of 18-year-old McKenzie Scott. The upgrades, including pedestrian-activated flashers and new signage, are part of a community response to ensure student safety. The enhancements aim to prevent future accidents and reflect a commitment to pedestrian awareness. Community members have expressed the need for better driver education as the city plans further improvements by 2026 to enhance safety in the area.

Las Vegas officials have announced a series of safety enhancements for a crosswalk near Arbor View High School following the tragic traffic accident that resulted in the death of 18-year-old high school senior McKenzie Scott. The city aims to implement these improvements before the new school year begins in August.

The decision for the enhancements, which come after a comprehensive traffic study, has been welcomed by the community still grappling with the aftermath of Scott’s death. In May, Scott was struck and killed by 37-year-old Keenan Jackson, who has been charged with DUI resulting in death, reckless driving, and driving without a valid driver’s license. At the time of the tragic incident, Jackson’s blood-alcohol level was reported to be 0.29, significantly above the legal limit of 0.08.

The safety upgrades to the crosswalk on Buffalo Drive between Grand Teton and Whispering Sands drives will include overhead pedestrian-activated flashers, new signage, and refreshed crosswalk paint. These changes are crucial steps to enhance pedestrian safety in the area, which serves as a primary route for students traveling to and from school.

City officials stated that all traffic safety devices at the time of the crash were functioning properly according to the traffic study conducted post-incident. Nonetheless, the enhancements are regarded as necessary measures to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of students and community members. Clark County School District Superintendent Jhone Ebert has emphasized that the safety of students and staff remains a top priority.

The community response following Scott’s death saw parents unofficially acting as crossing guards at the location, highlighting public concern over pedestrian safety. Krista Holloway, the founder of the advocacy group “Walk Safely LV,” expressed her disappointment at the length of time taken to announce the improvements, indicating a pressing need for better driver education regarding pedestrian right-of-way laws.

In addition to the immediate upgrades planned for Buffalo Drive, the city anticipates further enhancements for Whispering Sands Drive. By 2026, additional improvements, including the installation of a new crosswalk and concrete roadway dividers, are expected to be introduced to bolster safety further in the vicinity.

Despite the positive steps being taken, some community members, including Ashley Brewer—a parent whose child was also hit at the same crosswalk—have revealed feelings that these changes are overdue. The tragic incident involving McKenzie Scott has reignited conversations about the importance of community responsibility and safe driving practices, as Mayor Shelley Berkley conveyed her condolences to Scott’s family and friends while underscoring the community’s shared responsibility in ensuring pedestrian safety on the streets.

As Las Vegas moves forward with these crucial enhancements, the hope is that they will not only commemorate the life lost but also contribute to preventing similar tragedies in the future. The commitment to enhancing pedestrian safety reflects a growing awareness and responsiveness to the needs of the community.