I am an employee of The Fireplace, a local establishment that has been part of the Everett community since 1940. Our location is on the intersection of Everett Ave and Virginia Ave, an area notorious for its unsafe crossing conditions. In my time here, I have witnessed four fatalities in just four years, with many more unreported incidents. One of our own was the latest victim in this dangerous intersection on December 9, 2023. 

Everett deserves better safety measures for its residents and visitors alike. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian deaths account for 16% of all traffic fatalities nationwide - we can't let our city contribute to this statistic any longer.

We urge the city of Everett, Washington and the government to install a HAWK beacon at this perilous intersection. This simple yet effective measure could save lives by providing safer crossing options for pedestrians while minimally disrupting vehicle flow.

A HAWK beacon (High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk Beacon) is a traffic control device designed to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians to cross safely. It's officially known as a pedestrian hybrid beacon. Its purpose is to provide protected pedestrian crossings, stopping vehicular traffic only as needed.

The time has come for action - not after another tragedy but now before it happens again! Please sign this petition urging our city officials to prioritize pedestrian safety by installing a HAWK beacon at Everett Ave and Virginia Ave intersection today!