Every morning, as I walk my children to school in Welland, the intersection of East Main Street and St. Andrew Avenue looms with danger. This bustling spot sits right between a primary school and a high school, teeming with students every day. As a parent, witnessing cars speeding unchecked and disregarding traffic signals at this intersection has become a heart-wrenching daily routine.

This isn't just a concern of mine but a shared worry among many parents in our community. The lack of a flashing crosswalk light during school hours at this intersection poses a severe risk to our children’s safety. It is unconscionable that we are left to trust in the caution of reckless drivers rather than have a system in place that actively prevents tragedy.

Statistics and studies consistently show that areas with flashing lights and active school zone indicators see a reduction in traffic incidents and increase driver compliance with traffic laws. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data supports the effectiveness of such measures in making areas around schools safer for students.

The City of Welland and Niagara Region need to invest in these preventive measures immediately. Installing a flashing school crosswalk light at the East Main Street and St. Andrew Avenue intersection is a critical step toward ensuring the safety of hundreds of our children who use this route. Additionally, a red-light camera could deter the reckless behavior of drivers, creating a safer environment for everyone.

By taking action now, we are adding an essential layer of protection for our youth and displaying a commitment to their safety. Let us come together as a community to urge our local government to prioritize the security of our children and the peace of mind of their families.

Please sign this petition to demand that our local leaders address this urgent issue and safeguard our schoolchildren's safety. Our voices are strongest when united—sign and share today.