Every morning on my walk to school, I pass the same frustrating scene. A long line of cars stretches down the street, engines humming as drivers inch forward at a pace that feels almost frozen. Some mornings, it takes more than 20 minutes just to clear a single intersection. What should be a quick drop off turns into a daily gridlock.

Last fall, I saw how serious this congestion can become. A minor fender bender happened just a few cars ahead of the crosswalk near my school. No one was badly hurt, but traffic completely stalled. Students were late to class. Parents stepped out of their vehicles, stressed and irritated. It struck me that this was not just an inconvenience. It was a symptom of a system stretched beyond its limits. When so many families depend on cars for even short distances, one small accident can disrupt an entire morning.

Eastvale is a rapidly growing community. According to U.S. Census data, the city’s population has increased dramatically over the past decade, surpassing 70,000 residents. As population rises, vehicle use rises with it. Across the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that transportation accounts for about 29 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest contributor. Passenger cars alone are responsible for a significant share of carbon dioxide emissions. More cars on the road mean more pollution, which directly affects local air quality and long term public health.

At the same time, buses in our area are underused and infrequent. In many neighborhoods, they arrive only once every 20 minutes or more. Research from the American Public Transportation Association shows that when transit service becomes more frequent and reliable, ridership increases significantly. In other words, people are more willing to use public transportation when it is convenient and dependable. Expanding bus coverage and shortening wait times could remove hundreds of cars from our busiest roads during peak hours.

Safety must also be a priority. Improved lighting at bus stops, visible security cameras, and trained personnel can make public transportation feel secure for students, parents, and workers. Studies have shown that well lit transit stops and the presence of staff reduce both crime and the fear of crime, increasing overall ridership. If families feel confident that buses are safe, they will be far more likely to choose them over driving.

Expanding and improving our public transportation system is not just about easing traffic. It is about reducing accidents, lowering carbon emissions, and creating a healthier environment for our community. Cleaner air, quieter streets, and shorter commutes are realistic goals if we invest wisely.

Eastvale’s growth does not have to mean endless congestion. By strengthening our bus system and making it safe, frequent, and accessible, we can build a transportation network that supports our future rather than holding it back. Sign this petition if you believe in a safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation system for our city. Together, we can turn daily frustration into meaningful change.