On May 27, 2025, my 7-year-old nephew, Legend Jenkins, was tragically struck by an SUV while crossing the street to return home from the store in Gastonia, NC. He was with his brother, and they had traveled this same route many times before. This busy intersection, frequented by families heading to the shopping center, Health Department, and back home, is perilously unsafe.

The loss of Legend is an indescribable pain, a void that can never be filled. The danger of this intersection remains, threatening the safety and lives of other children and residents in the community. It is essential that no other family endures the heartache that we continue to experience. The traffic volume and lack of pedestrian safety measures make crossing a treacherous endeavor.

We propose installing a safe, clearly marked crosswalk at this intersection, accompanied by proper signage and pedestrian lights to ensure visibility and safety for everyone. By commemorating it in Legend's name, we not only honor a beautiful soul lost too soon but also serve as a constant reminder of the importance of vigilance and protection for our community’s pedestrians, especially our children.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian fatalities are at their highest level, accounting for 17% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. With proper safety measures installed, we can help reduce this grim statistic. A safe crosswalk can dramatically improve the daily safety for Gastonia residents.

Join our call to action to make our community safer and protect our loved ones. By signing this petition, you are supporting a necessary change, advocating for the safety of your neighbors, and ensuring that no family has to endure the loss of a child because of inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. Let us rally for a safe crosswalk that not only serves as a secure passage but also keeps the memory of Legend Jenkins alive.

Please sign this petition and support the installation of a safe crosswalk named after Legend Jenkins in Gastonia, NC. Together, we can make a lasting impact.