Losing one of my best friends to a tragic accident at a railroad crossing in Shafter, CA, was a heart-wrenching experience—a pain no one should ever have to endure. The memory of that loss fuels my determination to ensure that no other family or community endures the same tragedy.

In our community, the tracks are part of daily life. They intersect with paths that children take to school, that parents use to get to work, and where families traverse to visit loved ones. Yet, the existing crossing points are perilous, inadequately safeguarded, and a threat to everyone's safety. It's time to act—to demand change and protect our loved ones.

A practical solution is to construct safe railroad crossings, either by building overpasses or underpasses, specifically where the tracks intersect with major pedestrian pathways. This infrastructure can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and deaths. Combine this with installing barriers or fences at non-designated crossing points to physically prevent access and discourage dangerous practices. The presence of crossing guards or increased signage can also enhance safety.

According to the Federal Railroad Administration, there were over 2,000 collisions at public and private highway-rail grade crossings in the United States in 2020 alone, highlighting the gravity of this issue. Ensuring the safety of Shafter's residents—especially our children—is not just a necessity; it's an obligation. Our community deserves to walk safely across these tracks without fearing for their lives.

This petition calls upon the city planners, local government bodies, and the railroad companies involved to prioritize the safety of their citizens. Let us unite as a community to demand real changes that protect everyone but especially safeguard the future of our children.

Please sign this petition to urge action now, not after another tragedy occurs. Together, we have the power to make Shafter a safer place for all.

Please contact us here with all idea and support on this subject 

Spencernikolas003@gmail.com