The Utah Department of Transportation is installing new “under-mast” lights statewide to improve safety for pedestrians at intersections.
[Above photo by Utah DOT]
The agency said its engineers developed under-mast lights to boost visibility to areas where typical lighting can’t be installed; creating a spotlight in the exact area where a person might be walking, jogging, or rolling across.
“Crosswalk users can often see a car before the car sees them, especially at night,” noted David Townsend, Utah DOT traffic signal supervisor, in a statement. “Under-mast lights immediately help a driver notice areas where they should be cautious. These lights will help crosswalk users and motorists be safer, exist harmoniously and confidently navigate to their destinations.”
To date, Utah DOT said it has installed approximately 150 under-mast lights across the state, with plans to add more soon. The agency added that under-mast lighting unit consists of a light emitting diode or LED light that can be attached to the bottom of a pre-existing signal pole’s arm, eliminating the need to pay for and install an entire new light post. This design also helps avoid complications with overhead power lines, which are often too close to safely work around.
By adding more light to intersections, Utah DOT said it hopes to improve safety for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. Since 2019, Utah roads have seen an average of 43 pedestrian fatalities, with nine having occurred so far in 2025.
“Under-mast lights may seem like a small change, but everything we do, from the smallest light installation to the creation of big, brand-new bridges is focused on making our roads safer,” Townsend said. “Adaptations like this are really important.”
Utah DOT noted that it will continue to watch for upcoming projects in areas where lighting is needed, with the goal of bolstering lighting at the crosswalks of every state-owned signalized intersection within the next five years.
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