Provo Renamed Street for Fallen Officer Joseph Shinners
The city designated a major thoroughfare in memory of the 36-year-old officer who died in the line of duty.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Law Enforcement
Provo officials recently unveiled a memorial boulevard sign honoring Officer Joseph Shinners. The city renamed a portion of 500 West to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the 36-year-old officer.
Why it matters
The renaming serves as a public tribute to Officer Shinners, who died while serving his community. City leaders selected the location to ensure his memory remains a permanent part of the local landscape.
The boulevard designation applies to 500 West, with memorial signs placed at the intersection of Lakeview Parkway and the Utah Department of Transportation-managed 2000 North intersection. This change does not affect existing street addresses for residents.
The players
Joseph Shinners
He was a 36-year-old officer who lost his life in the line of duty.
Utah Department of Transportation
The state agency manages transportation infrastructure and authorized signage at the 2000 North intersection.
The details
Provo city officials installed the new memorial signage at the south end of the road, while the Utah Department of Transportation authorized corresponding signs at the northern boundary. The tribute honors Officer Joseph Shinners, who was killed in the line of duty in 2019.
Timeline
January 5, 2019: Officer Joseph Shinners was killed in the line of duty.
September 25, 2026: The city unveiled the new memorial boulevard.
Legal Context
This dedication follows the precedent set by the 2019 line-of-duty death of Officer Joseph Shinners. Municipalities frequently use street naming conventions to solidify the legacy of public safety personnel lost in the line of duty.
Residents and commuters along 500 West will see the new memorial signage starting this week. The designation remains symbolic, meaning no property owners are required to change their mailing addresses.
The takeaway
Naming city infrastructure after fallen officers provides a permanent way for communities to honor local sacrifice. Residents can visit the new signage at the intersection of Lakeview Parkway and 500 West to pay their respects.
Further reading
For more information on local public safety initiatives, visit Law Enforcement.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Herald.
