In 2005, UC Merced opened its doors to students for the first time. After more than 16 years, lighting issues down the bike path on Lake Road remain a major issue that neither the University nor the county have addressed. Every day, students walk, bike, skate, and so on down this road to see their friends and families. I also expect to see a lot more footpath from students living at Merced Station, which is just down Lake Road. Many of these students have already been injured, followed/had their safety jeopardized, or tragically killed as a result of vehicles not being able to see them due to the city's negligence in not prioritizing better lighting. I've personally been followed down Lake Road and want to speak out for fellow students and peers. We ask that the city or university step in to protect students by placing better lighting down Lake and Bellevue Road.