Petition for Safer Bus Stops in Lehigh Acres, FL

The safety of our children has always been a primary concern for the citizens of Lehigh Acres, FL. Unfortunately, there have been too many instances where children are put in harm's way due to poorly equipped bus stops. Too many of our children have been hit while waiting for the bus in dark areas along busy roads—a tragic and preventable reality that continues to harm our community.

To address this critical issue, we are calling for the improvement of our local bus stops with the following mandatory safety measures:

-Mandatory Lighting Systems: Proper lighting is essential for visibility and safety. The "National Cooperative Highway Research Program Report 600: Enhanced Night Visibility Series" confirms that increased lighting dramatically improves nighttime visibility, leading to fewer accidents. Well-lit bus stops will help ensure that children are visible to drivers, reducing the risk of tragic collisions.

-Benches and Picnic Tables: Children need a safe and comfortable place to wait for the bus, away from traffic. Providing benches or picnic tables at bus stops will keep children off the ground and further away from passing vehicles.

-Clip-On Strobe Lights for Children: We propose that every child who waits at a bus stop in a dark or poorly lit area be equipped with a small, clip-on strobe light. These lights can significantly increase their visibility to drivers, especially during early morning hours or in inclement weather.

-Bus Stop Signage: Clear and reflective bus stop signage is necessary to alert drivers to the presence of children. We request that bus stops be well-marked with signs that are easily visible day and night.

-Safety Rules for Parents and Children: To reinforce safety, we suggest implementing a set of mandatory safety rules that all parents and children must sign and follow. These rules would emphasize the importance of staying on sidewalks, avoiding horseplay near roads, and being aware of their surroundings.

-Flood Prevention at Known Bus Stops: Some bus stops are prone to flooding, which forces children to wait in dangerous areas near roads. We urge local authorities to address drainage issues at these stops to ensure children have a dry and safe place to wait.

These accidents are preventable, but we need your support to ensure our local government takes action on this crucial issue. By implementing these safety measures, we can protect the lives of our children and give every parent and resident of Lehigh Acres, FL, peace of mind.

Please sign this petition and support the implementation of these essential safety measures at our bus stops. Together, we can create a safer environment for our children and the entire community.