Caltrans to improve dangerous intersection near Los Banos high school after numerous complaints

LOS BANOS, Calif. (KFSN) -- For some Los Banos High School students, getting to and from school is not always an easy task.

Many have to cross a busy state highway to get to campus. Recently, Jaime Huarte was hired as a crossing guard to help students get across while Caltrans works on installing new security measures.

"I've seen on social media a lot of people complaining about seeing the students almost getting hit and some of the workers at Chevron, they told me they've seen it on numerous occasions," said Crossing Guard Jamie Huarte.

Cars zoom by along the Pacheco Boulevard and 11th Street intersection.

Caltrans plans to install a traffic signal at the intersection by 2023. In the meantime, they are working on an interim solution they hope to have in by the spring.

"There are led lighted solar power pedestrian activated signs coming in. Pedestrians will able to hit a button on the sign, they light up and motorists can see what's going on. It'll be safe for both pedestrians and motorists in this area," said Thomas Lawrence.

Chief Gary Brizee says they have voiced their concern with the intersection in the past.

They have been hearing more complaints, and so they recently collaborated with Caltrans and the school district to figure out a solution.

"It has to do with more kids using that crosswalk in particular. It's been a concern we've had that discussion with Caltrans in the past. But it's really ramped up in the last 12 to 16 months," said Los Banos Police Chief Gary Brizee.

In the meantime, the school district hired two crossing guards to help pedestrians.

"They're here in the morning, at lunch, and the afternoons when kids leave schools.For us, we have to keep our students safe. That's our priority so basically there's some expense putting crossing guards out here, but human life is priceless," said LBUSD Superintendent Mark Marshall.

While crossing the busiest intersection in Los Banos poses challenges. Huarte says she is glad to lend a hand.

"Every time they cross, they thank us. They told us that we're glad that we're here," said Huarte.