The roadblock on US Route 1 was installed by Monroe County as a preventative measure to protect Florida Keys residents against the Covid-19 SARS virus.  While the roadblock may have been established for good reasons, it is time for Monroe County to remove the roadblock IMMEDIATELY. 

Reasons for removal:

- The roadblock likely violates the United States Constitution

- The roadblock is causing major economic damage to the Florida Keys. Tourism is the LIFE blood of the Keys. The roadblock is killing the Keys.  As evidence: The SOS Foundation had record requests for food in April.  The roadblock may be killing more people than the virus

- Many workers still travel daily from Miami to the Keys - and no spike in cases has been seen. In FACT, visits to the emergency room for Covid like symptoms peaked SIX WEEKS ago in both Miami/Dade and Monroe Counties - and is now at a rate of virtually zero in Monroe County.

- Record unemployment and economic hardship is increased in the Keys every day the road is closed

- The Keys were home to a suicide prevention campaign last year.  Yet Monroe County has shut down the economy of the Keys - which could cause more deaths from suicide  - which could outpace deaths from the virus

- We have learned much about the virus.  A treatment for many has been established.  The elderly can be quarantined and herd immunity can be achieved in the Keys - the sooner the better - and opening the road will facilitate this

I am a retired Key West resident who will not benefit financially from the road opening, but I do not want to see the economic destruction and needless suffering of Keys residents caused by the likely illegal roadblock.

If you agree, please sign this petition.