North Ridgeville is the idealistic little rural city with a tranquil and calm atmosphere that makes it perfect for families and individuals that want to slow down and enjoy the simplicity that life has to bring. This city is the perfect escape from massive cities that consist of bumper-to-bumper traffic and big corporate businesses. North Ridgeville has jovial and distinctive events, such as the Corn Festival and Skunk Fest, stunning parks filled with curious wildlife, and unique family establishments which are the backbone of the community. These establishments rely on the support of the public to keep their doors open. For anyone yearning for a more fast paced day, North Olmsted and Westlake are a quick drive away. This beautiful community and way of life is threatened with the proposed Meijer construction.

   One of the most alarming concerns is the location they intend to build on, Cypress Avenue. This location is near the most dangerous and congested intersections in the city of North Ridgeville, the intersection of Lear Nagle and Lorain. There are ongoing accidents and the traffic is frequently congested. This location will also put a Meijer directly in families’ backyards. This will disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that was so desperately sought after by residents who chose to make this city home, as well as making the streets around the new building dangerous. Many motorists already speed down these streets where residents walk their dogs or with their families. Increased traffic will make these roads unsafe to enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood. Another downside is the increased traffic noise and pollution that are unavoidable with such a large construction project, as well as the disastrous effects our small businesses will face.

   Another major downfall of such an unnecessary project is the detrimental consequences it will have on the local wildlife and environment. Bradly Woods, our very own Metropark, is less than 5 miles away. Bradly Woods serves as a safe haven for already struggling wildlife just trying to find a safe place to remain wild and free. This park is consistently visited by blue herons, owls, hummingbirds, wild turkeys, turtles, and so many others. Large construction projects destroy local habitats, pollute the air and water, degrade the soil, and causes water run off, which can potentially lead to flooding in the surrounding areas.

   North Ridgeville already has an above average level of grocery stores, including Aldi, Giant Eagle, and Marc’s. A Meijer already exists in our neighboring city of Avon, which is just a short drive away and we have multiple other superstores in any given direction. Moving forward with this massive project will lead to the struggle of small businesses to compete, the overcrowding on an already dangerous intersection, and treacherous effects on the environment and local wildlife. 
   
   Please sign this petition to keep our peaceful city rural, beautiful, and tranquil. Let’s come together to ensure we protect our neighbors’ livelihoods by protecting their small businesses and homes. Together we can ensure a superior future  for the following generations by safeguarding spaces free of pollution, with room to explore in a safe environment. Let’s protect the city we all love by keeping it harmonious for us, the environment, and all that come after us.