Improve street lighting and pedestrian safety in Kentwood
The Issue
In loving memory of Stephon Harris, we urgently call upon the City of Kentwood to address critical safety concerns in our community. Stephon, a beloved student, tragically lost his life in a preventable accident near Eastern Ave and 54th Street. This devastating incident has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and all who knew him. We owe it to Stephon's memory to ensure that no other family endures such a loss.
The current conditions near the intersection of Eastern Ave and 54th Street in Kentwood are a known hazard. The absence of adequate street lighting severely compromises visibility, increasing the risk of accidents for pedestrians and drivers alike. Without immediate attention, this area remains perilous.
We respectfully request that the city urgently install additional street lighting near Eastern Ave and 54th Street. Moreover, a thorough evaluation of pedestrian safety, including visibility concerns, is necessary. Implementing crosswalk improvements, warning signs, flashing pedestrian lights, conducting speed studies, and implementing other traffic safety measures must be priorities.
Recent incidents along the Eastern Avenue corridor, including pedestrian and cyclist crashes reported in 2025 and 2026, have increased concerns about roadway visibility and safety for students and community members traveling through the area. These incidents highlight the importance of evaluating conditions that may affect pedestrian safety and taking proactive steps to help protect lives.
By prioritizing these improvements, we can transform this area into a safer space for our students and community members. It is a proactive measure to protect lives, foster community trust, and honor the memory of Stephon Harris. Our community's safety should not be a reactive consideration only after tragedies occur.
Join us in calling for immediate actions to enhance the safety of Eastern Ave and 54th Street. Sign this petition to urge the City of Kentwood to prevent further loss of life and make a meaningful change today. Your signature can bring necessary light and protection to our streets.
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The Issue
In loving memory of Stephon Harris, we urgently call upon the City of Kentwood to address critical safety concerns in our community. Stephon, a beloved student, tragically lost his life in a preventable accident near Eastern Ave and 54th Street. This devastating incident has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and all who knew him. We owe it to Stephon's memory to ensure that no other family endures such a loss.
The current conditions near the intersection of Eastern Ave and 54th Street in Kentwood are a known hazard. The absence of adequate street lighting severely compromises visibility, increasing the risk of accidents for pedestrians and drivers alike. Without immediate attention, this area remains perilous.
We respectfully request that the city urgently install additional street lighting near Eastern Ave and 54th Street. Moreover, a thorough evaluation of pedestrian safety, including visibility concerns, is necessary. Implementing crosswalk improvements, warning signs, flashing pedestrian lights, conducting speed studies, and implementing other traffic safety measures must be priorities.
Recent incidents along the Eastern Avenue corridor, including pedestrian and cyclist crashes reported in 2025 and 2026, have increased concerns about roadway visibility and safety for students and community members traveling through the area. These incidents highlight the importance of evaluating conditions that may affect pedestrian safety and taking proactive steps to help protect lives.
By prioritizing these improvements, we can transform this area into a safer space for our students and community members. It is a proactive measure to protect lives, foster community trust, and honor the memory of Stephon Harris. Our community's safety should not be a reactive consideration only after tragedies occur.
Join us in calling for immediate actions to enhance the safety of Eastern Ave and 54th Street. Sign this petition to urge the City of Kentwood to prevent further loss of life and make a meaningful change today. Your signature can bring necessary light and protection to our streets.
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Petition created on May 26, 2026