For many of us in Valley Stream, NY, North Woodmere Park is more than just a piece of land; it's a cherished home away from home where we gather to play, exercise, and unwind. As someone who frequently plays at the park, I understand how crucial good lighting is to safely enjoy our activities, especially during dimmer evenings.

Currently, the park's lights are scheduled to turn off early in the evening, which is especially frustrating during the lingering late-spring and summer evenings when many people, including myself, rely on the park after our daily commitments like work and school. As days grow longer, our time to enjoy the park grows shorter, depriving our community of valuable recreational and wellness hours.

There's a simple solution: keeping the park lights on until 10 PM from Memorial Day through October 14. This change would align lighting hours with the increased evening activity that comes with the warmer months. It would enhance safety and allow more users to take advantage of park facilities without feeling rushed or unsafe as darkness sets in.

Moreover, extending lighting until 10 PM is both a viable and sustainable option. By only extending the illumination for a few hours during this specific timeframe, we maintain balance with the environmental considerations, and the associated costs can be marginal in comparison to the social and community benefits accrued.

Valley Stream deserves the chance to make full use of its outdoor resources. Given that outdoor activities foster community bonds and improve mental and physical health, ensuring the park is accessible and safe throughout the evening should be a priority.

Join me in advocating for this change. Sign this petition to show our community leadership how much we value our time and safety in North Woodmere Park. Let's light up our evenings in Valley Stream and continue building memories together!