Poor exit lights – Park Record

As winter approaches, ensuring safe driving conditions on I-80 is more urgent than ever, especially at Exit 141 eastbound, where broken lights have created a dangerous situation.

Six months after I reported the broken lights to the Utah Department of Transportation on May 5, they still haven’t been repaired. This has now become a pressing concern for our community, as evidenced by the more than 25 Park City families who have also requested these repairs on the Nextdoor community website.

In addition, ABC News reported on February 7 that the bridge over I-80 south of Jeremy Ranch was struck by a UDOT plow truck, and a member of the Nextdoor community reported that the highway’s light line was broken in this accident.

The lack of lighting makes this highway exit nearly impossible to navigate at night and even more treacherous during snowy conditions. As the white salt accumulates on the road, it blends with the painted lines, leaving drivers with little visibility to follow the lane markings or identify the exit. This problem poses a serious risk not only to local residents, but also to any driver unfamiliar with the area or unprepared for such poor visibility.

This problem not only endangers everyday drivers, but also endangers essential snowplow operators. These operators rely on clear visual markings to do their jobs safely and efficiently, keeping our roads clear all winter long. Without proper lighting, their ability to safely locate and exit the highway is compromised, affecting both their safety and their effectiveness in keeping our highways safe.

The broken lights at exit 141 are not just a nuisance; they pose a vital safety problem. With more than 25 local families calling for immediate action, it’s clear this is a community priority. I urge UDOT to respond quickly to these requests and repair the lighting at this exit. We need a safe way to navigate our roads, especially as winter conditions worsen.

Kendeyl Johansen

Park City

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