Living off of Mill Street in Medford, NJ, my family and I have witnessed a growing concern that affects not only us, but also the countless children in our community. Mill Street, while charming and vital to our neighborhood, has become a dangerous thoroughfare for drivers. With the local middle school and 6th grade center adjacent to Mill, there is a significant foot traffic of children walking or biking to and from school every day.

Over recent months, we have noticed an increasing number of drivers using Mill Street as a shortcut, often driving at dangerously high speeds. This behavior not only violates traffic laws but also puts our children at risk of serious accidents. As parents and residents who cherish the safety and well-being of our children, we are deeply troubled by this trend.

The situation cannot continue as it is, and immediate action is needed to safeguard our community. We propose several measures to address this pressing issue. First, implementing speed bumps along Mill Street could effectively deter speeding drivers and encourage safe driving habits. Next, adding more signage, such as proper crosswalks and speed limit reminders, would provide constant visual cues for drivers to slow down. Finally, increasing police patrols in the area, particularly during school start and end times, would reinforce these safety measures with a firm reminder of their importance.

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, minor adjustments like these can reduce pedestrian collisions by up to 30%. Such statistics underscore the potential impact these measures could have in creating a safer environment for everyone in our neighborhood. Given the specific layout of Mill Street and its position next to educational institutions, these changes are not just beneficial but necessary.

Taking action now is crucial. We cannot wait for an incident to occur before realizing the immediate need for change. Our community deserves a safer Mill Street, where children can walk, bike, and play without fear.

Join us in making our streets safer. Sign this petition to urge local authorities in Medford, NJ to prioritize the safety of our children by implementing these much-needed changes on Mill Street. Together, we can protect our community's most vulnerable and ensure a secure environment for them to thrive.