I have created this petition as a final resort, and it is truly, all I want for Christmas. We, as a concerned community, have been pushing for a pedestrian crossing or at least appropriate signs to be put in place at the intersection of Judah Doan Way and Leslie Street for the past two years, countless phone calls to everyone possible, and endless emails. York Region concluded the area doesn't warrant it as only 20 people were seen crossing during their one-off observation (apparently those 20 people don’t need safety and their time wasted while waiting to cross is not important). But it isn't about the quantity, it's about the quality of safe life that each individual deserves, including the numerous children residing in the area. There is no sidewalk on the west side of Leslie towards Mount Albert/Vinces Market plaza, which makes the only legal and safe way to cross the street walking south to coincidentally the town of East Gwillimbury building, crossing the street at the lights and walking the full way back. This adds on an additional 7+ minutes.

Our plea is not for an abstract statistic, this is a cry for concrete action for the safety of our children including my own. The daily struggle of crossing this street can take up to 10+ minutes each way which is a safety concern in itself, let alone an absolute nightmare in the winter especially with children. The dearth of pedestrian safety measures doesn't just invalidate our concerns but directly endangers lives.

This situation brings to light a reality that we can change - the urgent need for pedestrian measures at Judah Doan Way and Leslie Street. We urge York Region to reconsider their decision based on one short observation and instead consider the daily reality and the potential risk to the safety of our community, particularly children.

We know we aren't the only community facing dismissiveness when it comes to pedestrian safety. The World Health Organization reports that 54% of traffic deaths globally are among pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. Adding pedestrian measures is a proven method of reducing accident rates (source: National Association of City Transportation Officials - NACTO). We need this change, before it becomes another tragic statistic or worse, a personal loss.

We implore suitable individuals to act now and install the necessary pedestrian crossing or signs at Judah Doan Way and Leslie Street intersection. Every person's safety should be a priority, regardless of numbers. Please sign this petition to make our streets and community safer. 
This is in all honesty, all I want for Christmas. Thank you!