Every day, countless residents of our community attempt to safely cross Fifth Street at the Mount Baker Avenue intersection, only to encounter numerous close calls and near misses. As someone who frequently traverses this crosswalk, I have experienced firsthand the difficulty of navigating this dangerous area. The visibility is low, making it hard for both drivers to see pedestrians and for pedestrians to notice oncoming vehicles. This is not just a minor inconvenience; it's a serious public safety issue.

At night and during inclement weather, this problem is magnified. Without proper lighting or warnings, pedestrians are at significant risk. People of all ages use this crosswalk, including children on their way to school, parents with strollers, and elderly individuals. Each crossing brings potential harm, and it's only a matter of time before a tragic accident occurs if no action is taken.

To ensure the safety of everyone in our community, we urge the city council to install flashing lights at this critical crosswalk. These lights would serve as a visual alert for drivers, signaling the presence of pedestrians so they can slow down and stop in time. By implementing this simple yet effective solution, we can drastically reduce the risk of accidents and enhance public safety.

Other cities have successfully improved pedestrian safety with similar measures. For example, studies have shown that pedestrian collisions can decrease by up to 30% with the addition of flashing crosswalk lights. This solution is not only practical but also cost-effective in comparison to potential medical and legal ramifications following an accident.

We are calling on the city to take immediate action before someone gets seriously hurt. By signing this petition, you are endorsing a crucial step toward making Fifth Street safer for everyone. Together, let’s push for a safer community for our families, children, and neighbors. Sign this petition to show your support for installing flashing lights on Fifth Street!