Published on January 09, 2026
In response to recent accidents involving students and vehicles, the City of Caldwell has taken proactive steps to improve pedestrian safety in and around school zones.
A new Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB, push-button activated crosswalk lights) has recently been installed at the Indiana Avenue and Fairoaks Drive crosswalk. In addition, the City’s Electrical Department evaluated nighttime lighting levels at crosswalks near all Caldwell schools. Working in partnership with Idaho Power, streetlight wattage is being increased at locations identified as too dark.
We recently installed a new school speed zone with signs and flashing beacons (20mph when flashing) on Homedale adjacent to Vallivue High School, bringing the total of school speed zones with these flashing beacons to 20. In the past year, the city has installed push-button-activated crosswalk lights at 17 new locations and several additional streetlights at crosswalk locations. We have also installed new sidewalks and protected walking paths in the vicinity of several schools.
While these infrastructure improvements significantly enhance safety, they cannot prevent accidents on their own. Drivers must slow down, put phones away, and stay alert, especially near schools and during low-light conditions. Pedestrians are encouraged to wear light-colored or reflective clothing and consider carrying a flashlight. When using a crosswalk, always make eye contact with drivers and ensure vehicles have stopped before crossing.
Preventing tragic accidents requires shared responsibility. Let’s all commit to doing our part to keep students and pedestrians safe in 2026 and beyond.