To the Wise County Commissioners Court and Texas Officials:

We, the community, are petitioning to officially rename the bridge on County Road 4668 historically and unofficially referred to as "Bobo’s Crossing"

to  "Athena Strand's Memorial Crossing".

As we approach what should be Athena’s 11th birthday this Saturday, May 23rd, we are asking our local officials to permanently cement her legacy at the very site where our community united to honor her memory.

Why This Specific Name Change Matters:

While previous grassroots efforts have suggested "Athena’s Crossing," utilizing the official designation "Athena Strand Memorial Crossing" provides the formal, dignified distinction that local governments and commissioners look for when approving commemorative infrastructure.

The unofficial name, "Bobo's Crossing," (or "Bobo Crossing") stems from a 1800s local settler. While we respect the deep historical roots of the Bobo family who still reside in the town today, the modern significance of this specific location has irrevocably changed. It has transitioned from a remnant of the 19th century into a profound, modern symbol of community resilience, protective love, and remembrance.

A Sacred Site of Remembrance:

The CR 4668 bridge is already, in the hearts of locals and on digital maps, Athena's space. Someone recently updated Google Maps to officially recognize the location as "Athena Strand Memorial." Directly off the side of the bridge, Athena’s mother, Maitlyn Gandy, recently had a permanent building erected. This structure now safely houses the massive outpouring of love from the community- including a large pink cross, flowers,Barbies, keepsakes that locals placed by the roadside for the last 4 years. After the building was finished, Athena's mother hung the pink jacket she wore to court to fight monsters up inside of the memorial building- it is signed by Athena's family. 

Renaming the bridge structure itself perfectly aligns the physical infrastructure with the emotional and geographical reality of the site.

Infrastructure, Safety, and Legacy:

There have been ongoing efforts regarding necessary revisions and structural updates to the CR 4668 bridge due to severe, hazardous flooding over the roadway during heavy rains.

As the county looks toward the future of this roadway and the eventual construction or restructuring of this bridge, there is no better time to officially dedicate the crossover. Upgrading the bridge to keep drivers safe while naming it the "Athena Strand's Memorial Crossing" turns a site of past tragedy into a beacon of future safety, structural progress, and eternal remembrance.

Our Call to Action:

We urge the Wise County Commissioners to honor Athena Strand, support her family, and recognize the unified voice of this community. Please approve the official designation of the Athena Strand Memorial Crossing on CR 4668.