Concerned citizens in the East Mountain area are repeatedly faced with the unnerving risks associated with the perilous intersection at NM 333 and Mountain Valley Road between Sedillo Hill and Edgewood, New Mexico. On the local Nextdoor app, many of our neighbors complain of accidents that have happened at that intersection or have had near misses, heart-stopping moments that could have culminated in tragedy due to poor intersection design, poor visibility and the absence of a crucial component - a traffic light.  Just a few examples of comments made by community members regarding this intersection:

• "State needs to do something. It’s rolling the dice to do a left turn there from mountain valley onto 66." - Brian P
• "I dread taking the kids to school and doing a left turn onto Route 66 from Mountain Valley. So much so I usually drive around through Edgewood just to avoid it." -- April M
• "It is pretty sketchy there. When going west on 66/333 cars pull right out in front of you. " -- Steve W
• "We've lived out here for 42 years and that intersection has always been a disaster." -- Barbara M
• "As much as I don’t like traffic lights. This intersection needs one." -- Rachel M

There have been numerous accidents at this site, many of which could have been avoided with the presence of a traffic light. The risk to the lives of cyclists and drivers is on the line every day. Our safety is continually compromised by this dangerous intersection that begs for immediate attention.

According to data from the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), traffic lights reduce accidents at intersections by 25-40%. These statistics reflect the dire need for prevention measures at this specific intersection, through the installation of a traffic light.

We demand that the relevant authorities, to include the Bernalillo County Road department, NMDOT and our state representative for District 22, Stefani Lord, acknowledge the immediacy of the situation and work together to take prompt action. By adding a traffic light, we can significantly decrease the probability of accidents and enhance the safety of our community members. Time is of the essence. As more and more people choose to call the East Mountains, Edgewood and surrounding communities home, the greater the risk becomes.

Please add your voice to ours by signing this petition. Together, we can effect change and save lives.