Smithfield council to review sidewalk options after Sunrise Elementary boundary changes

Smithfield officials told residents at the March 11 city council meeting that sidewalk projects near Sunrise Elementary will be evaluated as part of the upcoming budget process after recent school boundary changes raised pedestrian-safety concerns.

Mayor Aaron Rudie summarized resident complaints about the lack of a safe walking route from the 600 South area to Sunrise Elementary, noting that some parts of the corridor lack city-owned right-of-way and that sidewalk construction can require land acquisition, tree removal, landscaping changes and utility relocation.

Mickell Hecker, a Stone Haven Townhomes resident, said neighbors recently met with the Sunrise Elementary bus manager, the school principal, an administrator and the school resource officer, and that it appears unlikely the district will provide a bus for children in the affected area. Hecker asked the council to help obtain either a school bus or a safe walking route for students. City staff and councilmembers acknowledged the concern and said options will be reviewed during budget deliberations.

Separately, resident Michael Nicholls reported spotting a flaming lantern balloon on March 3 and finding five lantern balloons that had landed in different areas; he urged the council to consider rules addressing the fire hazard, especially on dry hillsides.

No specific sidewalk projects were approved on March 11; staff will evaluate feasible options, estimate costs and return with recommendations during the budget process.