Melody, a beloved member of our community in Newark, tragically lost her life while riding an E-Bike on December 15th, 2023. A dangerous driver took her from us far too soon. This could have been prevented if she had been riding in a viable, and protected bike lane. We now call upon the city's administration to honor Melody's memory by ensuring that no other cyclist has to face the same risk.

Newark is home to many cyclists who use their bikes for commuting, exercise, and recreation. However, our city lacks sufficient bike lanes on major streets, putting cyclists at risk every day from out of control drivers. Even I myself have been at risk from being hit by vehicles in the past while commuting around the Brick City, as so have many others who unfortunately HAVE been hit by vehicles. We propose that the city starts integrating bike lanes into these streets initially with temporary measures like cones and then transitioning into properly established protected bike lanes.

Protected bike lanes are not just lines painted on the road; they are physical barriers that prevent cars from entering or parking in them. They have been proven to reduce crashes by 28% (source: PeopleForBikes). Additionally, cities with higher numbers of protected bicycle facilities have lower fatality rates (source: Journal of Transport & Health).

We urge the Newark City Council and Mayor Ras J Baraka to prioritize this initiative for safer roads for all users - drivers, pedestrians and especially cyclists like Melody who deserve safe spaces to ride without fear or risk of death.

Please sign this petition today and help us make Newark safer for everyone who lives here or visits our great city, whether on the commute to work, school, or just enjoying the sights of the brick city.

-Friendly Neighborhood Midnight, calling upon Newarkers for safer commutes in the Brick City.