ST. GEORGE - A guardrail has been installed at a busy intersection known for heavy traffic and frequent accidents.

The intersection of Highland Road, Pecue Lane, and Valhalla Boulevard is scheduled for changes soon with MOVEBR, but until then, St. George Mayor Dustin Yates says a guardrail was needed.

"This intersection's needed improvements for quite some time," Yates said. 

Entergy has already taken interim measures by installing street lighting. 

In October 2024, a young mom lost her life after her car ended up in a roadside ditch. Her child suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital. Such incidents have prompted the St. George Fire Protection District to prepare for rapid water rescues whenever vehicles end up in the water. 

Since the installation of the new guardrail a few months ago, the fire department reports there have been no accidents requiring emergency response to the site.

"I haven't received any calls where we have gone out there recently where there has been an actual road closure," said Meg Kling, spokesperson for the St. George Fire Department. 

The City of Baton Rouge is currently working with multiple property owners to acquire land for additional improvements, including a new traffic light and further safety measures.

"This is a highly-trafficked area, a lot of families. This is the path people use to take their kids to school, ball practice, and commute to and from work. We just want to make sure it's as safe as it could possibly be," Yates said. 

While the new lighting and barricade are just the first steps, residents are hopeful that these changes will lead to a safer future for all who travel through this area.