The tragic accident at the Routes 23 and 7 intersection in Craryville, NY, which claimed the lives of John and Janet Piwowarski, has left our community heartbroken and in urgent need of change. Due to this accident, thousands of gallons of fuel were spilled, leading to environmental contamination of our ground and water. Additionally, the necessary detour has had a negative impact on three vital local businesses: Random Harvest, Tommy B's, and Zinnia's.

This intersection has long been a point of concern for safety and community well-being, and this incident underscores the urgent need for implementing measures to protect the lives of drivers, pedestrians, and local business livelihoods alike. Traffic through this junction is heavy, with increasing numbers of vehicles, including many large commercial trucks, making it more dangerous and chaotic.

Installing a stoplight at this intersection is a necessary and overdue step. A stoplight would help manage traffic flow more effectively, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of our community. According to the Federal Highway Administration, traffic signals can reduce the number of collisions by up to 50%. Considering the growing traffic volume on these state routes, this solution presents an immediate opportunity to improve safety and prevent future tragedies.

Furthermore, adding a stoplight would support local businesses by reducing future accidents which can create detours and making it easier and safer for customers to access these important community hubs. Maintaining the economic vitality of our businesses is crucial to our community's overall health.

The safety and future of our community depend on immediate action. We ask the New York Department of Transportation to prioritize this issue and expedite the installation of a stoplight at the Routes 23 and 7 intersection. Please sign this petition to show your support for a safer Craryville and a stronger community.