To: Oyster Bay–East Norwich School District, Town of Oyster Bay Highway Department, and Nassau County Police Department

We, the parents, guardians, and community members of Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, respectfully submit this petition to request urgent safety measures on Larrabee Avenue at the intersection of W. Main Street during school dismissal hours (2:30–4:30 PM).

At this time of day, Larrabee Avenue becomes a one-way street for the protection of children, yet many drivers continue to travel the wrong way. The existing signage is small, hard to see, and does not provide adequate warning. As a result, cars regularly drive into oncoming traffic and through groups of young children and families leaving the school.

This has already led to numerous dangerous situations. Parents with infants and young children (Pre-K through 2nd grade) are forced to stand in the roadway or park their vehicles along both sides of Larrabee Avenue to act as a barrier. Many of us have been subjected to yelling, vulgar language, and unsafe driving from motorists who ignore the signs.

We believe it is only a matter of time before a child, parent, or staff member is seriously injured.

We therefore request one or more of the following immediate actions:

    •    Installation of a crossing guard at Larrabee Avenue and W. Main Street during dismissal.

    •    Installation of larger, more visible “ONE WAY / DO NOT ENTER” signage in compliance with school zone standards.

    •    Addition of flashing lights or a timed beacon to alert drivers that the road changes direction from 2:00-4:00PM.

The safety of our children must come first. We urge the district, town, and police to work together to make these changes without delay.

Sincerely,

The undersigned parents, guardians, and community members