I live across the street from a bustling community centre and soccer field. (Pleasant Valley Hall, 6100 Doumont Rd.) Every day, I see numerous people, many of whom are children and dog walkers, trying to navigate through dangerously fast traffic just to reach the local soccer/baseball fields and community hall. What's even more troubling is that this area serves as a school bus drop-off zone, but people regularly drive at incredibly dangerous speeds well over 70-80+ km/hr. Especially at night when people are wearing darker clothing while walking, it’s an ideal scenario for a temporarily unobservant driver.

This is not merely a personal concern but rather a community-wide issue. Our neighborhoods should prioritize safety. In fact, according to Safe Routes to School National Partnership, the threat of traffic injury decreases by as much as 60% when properly designed pedestrian facilities, such as speed bumps and controlled crosswalks, are put in place. Without immediate action to amend this issue, we are subjecting our community, children, and pets to unnecessary risks each day.

We should not wait until a horrendous accident forces change upon us. It's crucial that we act as soon as possible. I am urging local authorities in Nanaimo, BC, to proactively address this situation by implementing a speed bump and pedestrian-controlled crosswalk in our neighbourhood.

Every signature on this petition amplifies the voices of other local Nanaimo citizens who care about their neighbourhood safety. Let's work together to ensure our streets are safe for all, especially our children and pets. Please show your support and sign this petition.