As a local business owner in Alberton, MT, I am faced with a significant issue that not only affects my coffee shop but also poses a risk to our community. My coffee shop is located on Railroad Avenue and currently, the access is through the back of an adjacent gas station. This arrangement is more than just inconvenient for my customers and employees - it's dangerous.

Pedestrian traffic is at risk as automobiles must reverse to be able to go around the building to exit. The city has recognized this problem and approved the installation of a direct approach to my coffee shop. However, we've hit a roadblock with the Montana Department of Transportation who denied our request arguing that the gas station (which owns the property that the coffee ship is on) has enough approach.  The current approach to the gas station is frequently blocked by semi-truck traffic delivering goods across the street to Valley Grocery. Or even the Department of Transportation trucks fueling up and organizing for throughout the day. This makes it difficult to know where to enter for the coffee shop and it is dangerous to exit on the east end because the semi-trucks block the view of oncoming traffic.  

This denial overlooks an important fact - safety should be paramount over convenience. According to data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), backing up accidents cause approximately 30% of all accidents at service stations nationwide. Many of the pedestrians that frequent my coffee shop are juveniles and may not be as observant of automobiles as a more experienced age group.  

I have written the governor of the State of Montana.  This has not helped.  The governor asked the state to reconsider, and they denied that request without any further consideration.    

We are calling upon you to support us in urging Montana Department of Transportation reconsider their decision and prioritize public safety by allowing direct access for our local coffee shop on Railroad Avenue. Please sign this petition today!