We, the undersigned, are concerned citizens, neighbors, and family members of South Bend who urge the City of South Bend and the Indiana Department of Transportation to take immediate and decisive action to improve the safety of Locust Road and Roosevelt Road. These roads have become increasingly hazardous for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers, especially during evening hours when visibility is significantly reduced due to inadequate lighting and insufficient safety measures.

**Recent tragedies and near-misses underscore the urgent need for improvements in this area:**

1. **On August 28, 2024, a tragic hit-and-run incident** occurred on Locust Road, claiming the life of Daryl Payne—beloved son, father, grandfather, veteran, and artist. He was struck by a vehicle and left injured in a ditch with no immediate help or medical attention. This heartbreaking event has devastated our family and serves as a stark reminder of the dire need for increased safety measures on this poorly lit and hazardous stretch of road.

2. **Just days before this incident,** a fatal motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Ireland and Locust Road resulted in the death of one man and left others seriously or slightly injured. This tragedy further highlights the dangers faced by all road users—pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.

3. **Another alarming incident involved a school bus and a vehicle** near Locust Road and Roosevelt Road. This crash underscores the dangerous conditions in the area, particularly for children and commuters who rely on these roads for safe transportation.

4. **As a former resident of the area,** I personally feared for my safety when riding my bike along Locust and Roosevelt Roads, afraid that I might be struck by a vehicle due to the lack of proper lighting, sidewalks, and other safety measures. This fear is shared by many in our community who feel unsafe walking or biking along these roads.

**These incidents are not isolated; they reflect a pattern of negligence that poses a constant threat to everyone using these roads in South Bend. How many more lives must be put at risk before action is taken?

**Our Call for Change:**

To prevent further accidents and protect our community members, we urgently request the following improvements on Locust Road and Roosevelt Road:

1. **Installation of Additional Street Lighting:** Proper lighting is essential for improving visibility for both pedestrians and drivers, reducing the risk of accidents.

2. **Designated Pedestrian Crosswalks:** Clearly marked crosswalks with pedestrian signals will provide safe crossing points for those walking along Locust Road and Roosevelt Road.

3. **Speed Reduction Measures:** Implementing lower speed limits, particularly in high-traffic pedestrian areas, along with speed bumps or signage, will encourage safer driving behavior.

4. **Reflective Road Markings and Safety Signs:** Adding reflective paint and additional road signage will help alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians and potential hazards.

                      Why This Matters: 

Our plea is grounded in the fundamental responsibility of local authorities to safeguard the lives and well-being of their residents. As individuals directly impacted by the consequences of unsafe road conditions, we speak with a genuine and urgent need for change.

Research consistently shows that adequate street lighting can reduce nighttime accidents by up to 30%. Implementing additional safety measures such as crosswalks and speed limits is a practical, cost-effective approach to preventing further accidents and saving lives. Improving road safety on Locust and Roosevelt Roads is not just a matter of public safety; it is also a sound financial decision, preventing future medical and legal costs associated with accidents.

The recent tragedies on Locust and Roosevelt Roads, including the loss of life, severe injuries, and accidents involving children, have left our community heartbroken and fearful. The tragic death of Daryl Payne, a cherished member of our community, along with the fatal crash and the school bus incident, are painful reminders that every resident of South Bend deserves to feel safe walking, biking, or driving on their streets. We implore you to act now to prevent another family from experiencing the same pain and loss we have endured.

Locust Road and Roosevelt Road should be safe for all who use them—whether walking, biking, or driving. We urge the City of South Bend and the Indiana Department of Transportation to prioritize the safety of their residents by installing better lighting, crosswalks, and additional safety measures.

We call on you to prevent further tragedies and ensure that no other family has to endure the heartache and fear that ours has experienced. Please sign this petition and join us in advocating for safer roads in our community.

Together, let’s make a difference and ensure our roads are safe for everyone.