Recently, a tragic accident involving a child being hit by a vehicle, along with several other close calls, has brought to light the urgent need to reevaluate traffic access at the intersection of Boscawen Street and the Old Town Walking Mall in Winchester, Virginia. This area, known for its vibrant pedestrian activity, attracts countless visitors who expect a safe, car-free environment. However, the presence of vehicles creates a hazardous situation that threatens the safety of everyone who frequents the walking mall, especially families with children.

The increasing foot traffic has highlighted the fact that Boscawen should not remain open to general traffic. If completely closing the street is not feasible due to logistical concerns, we propose a compromise: shutting down the intersection on weekends. This approach will allow residents and visitors to enjoy the walking mall without the constant worry of vehicle interference, while still permitting weekday access for necessary transportation.

Furthermore, Indian Alley and the existing emergency access routes can adequately serve any emergency needs, ensuring that essential services are not disrupted. These routes have already been established and are fully capable of handling the necessary traffic for emergencies, without compromising pedestrian safety.

With these changes, we aim to both enhance the safety of our community members and promote the local economy by making it more inviting for tourists and patrons to explore Winchester’s historic district.

By signing this petition, you will be advocating for a safer and more welcoming environment in downtown Winchester. Your support can help prevent further accidents, create a vibrant pedestrian area for families to enjoy, and preserve the historic charm of the walking mall. Please sign our petition to show your support for closing the Boscawen Street intersection to traffic.