A block on Center Street won’t bog down BYU gameday

PROVO, Utah — A block of Center Street leading into Provo is closed for construction. However, that doesn’t mean BYU gameday traffic will be affected. 

There are three main exits into Provo off I-15, but City Traffic Manager Vern Keesler said the Center Street route doesn’t see many travelers on BYU game day.

In fact, the detour may actually benefit drivers by bypassing the no-left turn zone at Center Street and University Avenue.

Keesler said pedestrian safety is the name of the game behind the closure.

“We’re doing everything we can to slow the traffic down,” he said. “So, at 15 mph, a vehicle should be able to go over these raised crosswalks very comfortably. But, if they go over faster, they’re going to know about it. So, we want the pedestrian to have the right of way in that Center Street area.”

By raising the crosswalks, it will force drivers to slow down as they transition off I-15 and into downtown Provo.

Keesler recommends pedestrians take public transit if they would like to avoid traffic or parking.

BYU is set to play the Cincinnati Bearcats on Friday night.

Devin Oldroyd contributed to this story.

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