By RYAN SKAITH

The City of St. Joseph has authorized a temporary school zone designation along Faraon Street, stretching from Heartland Road to Riverside Road.

The move comes in response to rising safety concerns regarding students crossing the busy corridor between Mosaic Life Care and the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) medical program facilities.

Local officials noted a significant increase in foot traffic as medical students commute between the hospital and academic buildings on opposite sides of the street. Despite the high volume of pedestrians, vehicle speeds have remained consistently high, creating what the city describes as a potential safety hazard.

The temporary designation allows for the immediate installation of school zone signage and the enforcement of reduced speed limits. These measures are intended to provide an immediate safety buffer while the city undergoes a formal review process to determine if the changes should become permanent.

The proposal is currently slated for review by the Traffic Commission before moving to the City Council for final consideration. The temporary signs and speed limits will remain in effect throughout the duration of this legislative process.

Residents or students with questions regarding the new designation are encouraged to contact city officials at 816-271-5324 for additional information.