Every day, as I drive a school bus for Bates Middle School in Annapolis, MD, I witness a problematic and potentially dangerous situation at the intersection of Caraway and Spa Road. This area becomes especially challenging during school dismissal times. The congestion is overwhelming because many students, parents, and other vehicles converge, trying to navigate the intersection without any traffic control measures.

With students crossing over to the nearby cemetery and vehicles trying to exit the bottleneck, the intersection becomes a complex and risky environment. This is more than just a nuisance; it's a safety hazard that puts our children at risk. The lack of a traffic light or a crossing guard significantly increases the chances of an accident occurring. The traffic build-up makes it nearly impossible for anyone to get through the intersection efficiently, delaying buses and adding stress to everyone involved.

Installing a traffic light or stationing a crossing guard at this intersection would mitigate these issues. A traffic light would regulate the flow of vehicles and provide clear crossing opportunities for pedestrians, especially children. Alternatively, a crossing guard during peak times could ensure students' safe passage and assist in managing vehicular traffic flow.

According to the American Traffic Safety Services Association, appropriate traffic signals can reduce the incidence of collisions by up to 50%. Introducing these safety measures at Caraway and Spa Road would not only protect students but also improve the quality of life for all who travel this route regularly. It is a relatively simple but crucial change that poses long-term benefits for our community.

Our local authorities, including the Annapolis Department of Transportation, need to address this pressing issue to prevent future accidents and ensure safety for all Bates Middle School students and local commuters. Sign this petition to urge them to take immediate action in installing a traffic light or appointing a crossing guard at this intersection. Together, we can ensure a safer journey for our children and make our community a safer place for all.