NOTE: High-resolution photos of the event and completed intersection improvements are available for media use here.

ACHD Marks Completion of 16th and Washington Intersection Safety Improvements

BOISE — The Ada County Highway District hosted a heartfelt event at the intersection of 16th Street and Washington Street in downtown Boise, marking the completion of a series of pedestrian-focused safety improvements.

The family of Jadin Zurawski, a child who was killed at the intersection in 2023, attended the ceremony, where ACHD Commissioners and staff joined Boise City Councilmembers, law enforcement, and community members to reflect, remember, and continue the commitment to building a safer future for all road users.

ACHD Commission President Miranda Gold opened the event by acknowledging the community’s role in prompting swift and purposeful action.

“We’re here not just to commemorate the completion of this work, but to reflect on what happens when a community speaks up and its public agencies respond with urgency, responsibility, and care,” said Gold. “So let this intersection serve as both a place of healing and a symbol of progress.”

ACHD began construction earlier this year after months of engineering analysis and public feedback. As part of the improvements, the former signalized intersection was removed and replaced with Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) to alert drivers when pedestrians are present. Upgrades also include raised pedestrian crossings on 16th Street to calm traffic and increase pedestrian visibility, new bulb-outs and upgraded ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps. The changes aim to reduce vehicle speeds, increase driver awareness, and improve pedestrian safety in a location that serves residents, businesses, and nearby schools.

ACHD Commissioner Alexis Pickering praised the project team and Jadin’s family for their involvement in the improvements.

“I’m so proud of Jadin’s family for pushing through their pain to work with us on an improved intersection that actually reflects the needs of the corridor,” said Pickering. “I’m so proud of the responsiveness of our organization and the collaboration we’ve had with our partner organizations to do this in record breaking time.”

The City of Boise was also represented at the event. Although Boise City Councilmember Jimmy Hallyburton was unable to attend in person, his prepared remarks were read on his behalf.

“Not only is this a safer crossing, this is also an example of what can be done in other areas and other crossings, especially where there is a high activity of vulnerable community members,” Hallyburton shared. “I’m so thankful for each and every person who made this possible.”

More information about the project is available on ACHD’s website at www.achdidaho.org.

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