Hi, we are Jayden Martin and Wyatt Clemens and we’re petitioning for a sidewalk along road 113 so we can walk bike safer, go more places without the use of parental guardians, and have a wider area we can bike in beyond our neighborhood. Other kids in the neighborhood who would like this are Nolan, Nora, Jack, Layla, Jake, Aiden, Cole, and Ally. You can tell it’s a crowded neighborhood with lots of kids with big dreams and wanting to have lots of fun. Growing up in a neighborhood like ours, one would assume that the freedom to explore, to enjoy the simple joys of life—biking, walking, scootering with friends—is a given. But for me and my friends, that's not always the case. The busy Road 113 stands as a barrier. Without a proper sidewalk, it has become a danger zone, making a carefree stroll or an enthusiastic ride a perilous affair both for us kids and for our concerned parents.

The absence of a sidewalk not only restricts our freedom but also poses significant safety risks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian fatalities make up about 17% of all traffic-related deaths. Having a sidewalk could significantly reduce the risk of accidents, providing a safe passage for us and for everyone in the community.

In our quest for a safe, accessible community, we propose the construction of a sidewalk around Road 113. This project would be more than just a strip of concrete; it would represent safety, freedom, and community unity. It will encourage active lifestyles, reducing our carbon footprint by enabling more walking and biking instead of driving short distances.

We understand that this project requires funding and planning, but it is achievable. Local governments have access to state and federal funds specifically allocated for infrastructure improvements, including Safe Routes to School programs which could help in making this vision a reality.

Join us in urging city council officials to prioritize this essential infrastructure. By signing this petition, you are not only supporting the safety and independence of today's youth but also investing in the future safety and vibrancy of our community. Please sign and help turn dreams of a sidewalk, and the freedom it promises, into a reality for all of us.