Our family, along with many others, depends on the crosswalk at the intersection of Johnny Morris Rd. and Point N Dr. in northeast Austin / Colony Park to reach Gus Garcia Young Men's Leadership Academy and all the nearby facilities — the soccer fields, track, Austin Tennis Center, and Southern Walnut Creek Trail. Every day, as we approach this intersection — whether by foot, bike, or car — we face the unpredictability and fear of vehicles not slowing down or stopping for pedestrians and cyclists, despite state law requiring them to do so. The danger is intensified by the only pedestrian beacon in the area being positioned mid-way up the hill — it is not only unsafe but also inconvenient, putting pedestrians and cyclists at peril from vehicles speeding downhill, obscured by the crest of the hilltop and curve of the road.

This critical intersection serves as one of the main gateways to Gus Garcia Young Men's Leadership Academy. Unfortunately, it remains unprotected, requiring vehicles to stop only on the school and Point N sides, while others zoom by a long Johnny Morris at alarming speeds of 50-60 mph in a zone clearly marked for 35 mph, which reduces to 20 mph during specific school hours. The discrepancy between the legal speed limits and actual vehicle speeds poses a serious risk to school children, families, and the entire community accessing this crossing.

Reckless driving at this location is more than a nuisance; it is a perilous threat to our community's safety. In 2025 a night-time, multi-car accident at this intersection knocked down a utility pole and cut off power to the surrounding neighborhoods. Several passengers were transported from the scene by ambulance. Johnny Morris Rd had to be closed for over 12 hours while utility workers repaired the damage. It is only a matter of time before someone is critically injured or killed. 

Installing traffic signals at this intersection would ensure that vehicles slow down, adhere to speed limits, and respect pedestrian crossings, thereby significantly decreasing the risk of accidents. Such a measure would transform this intersection from a danger zone into a safeguarded crossing for the dozens of families and children who traverse it daily.

We urge the City of Austin to prioritize the safety of this community by implementing traffic signals at this intersection. Every journey taken across Johnny Morris under the current conditions is a gamble with the safety and lives of community members.

The safety of our children and community should never be left to chance. Please join us in prioritizing these critical traffic safety improvements by signing this petition. With your support, we can advocate for a safer and more secure environment for everyone who uses the Johnny Morris corridor — pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. 

Thank you.