I have witnessed firsthand the shocking neglect of safety at the pedestrian crossing on Flower Street near Positano Café in Maroubra. As someone who cares deeply about the well-being of our community, I have had my fair share of heart-stopping moments at this very intersection. The sheer frequency with which drivers speed through the crossing, failing to stop for pedestrians, is deeply concerning. I am not alone in feeling this way; too many lives have been put at risk, and tragically, some have been lost. It’s high time we put a stop to this negligence.

The pedestrian crossing in question is not just any crossing—it serves as a vital pathway for numerous members of the community. Residents of the Bupa Aged Care facility, families and children attending St John’s Preschool and Church, as well as visitors and customers frequenting the shops and cafés on either side of Maroubra, all rely on this crossing daily. Yet, each day, they face the impending danger posed by reckless drivers who ignore basic road safety rules.

According to recent traffic studies, pedestrian fatalities occur most often due to speeding and failure to yield at pedestrian crossings—behaviors that are alarmingly prevalent at this location. It is imperative that Randwick City Council and the NSW Government take immediate and decisive action to mitigate these risks.

Here are some potential solutions that could transform this hazardous crossing into a safe passageway for the community:

1. **Enhanced Signage and Road Markings**: Installing clearer, more visible signs and repainting the road markings regularly can alert drivers well in advance to slow down and stop for pedestrians.

2. **Pedestrian Signals**: Implement pedestrian-activated signals to give walkers the right of way and make drivers more aware of the requirement to stop.

3. **Traffic Calming Measures**: Introduce speed bumps or elevated crossings, which force vehicles to slow down as they approach.

4. **Increased Fines and Patrols**: Enforce stricter penalties for traffic violations at this crossing and increase police patrols to monitor and deter reckless driving.

The safety of our community hangs in the balance, and we believe these measures can help save lives. It is up to us to make Flower Street a safer place for everyone.

We urge you to sign this petition to demand action from the Randwick City Council and the NSW Government. Together, let’s protect our loved ones and ensure everyone can navigate this crossing safely.