Holiday City at Berkeley, a vibrant senior community in Ocean County, New Jersey, is home to many elderly residents who cherish the independence and safety provided by the well-maintained streets and facilities. However, the entrance at the end of Mule Road, leading up to St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, lacks adequate street lighting, posing a significant safety hazard for our seniors, especially in the evening hours.

With the church being a central gathering point for spiritual and community activities, it's crucial that residents can access it safely at all hours. The absence of street lights not only puts them at risk of accidents but also discourages participation in essential communal and spiritual events, vital for their overall well-being.

According to the National Institute on Aging, the risk of falls and pedestrian accidents increases notably with age. This makes it imperative that infrastructure in senior communities is equipped to provide the utmost safety for elderly pedestrians. Furthermore, a study by the Federal Highway Administration outlines that proper street lighting reduces nighttime crashes by approximately 30%, proving its importance in accident prevention.

We call upon local authorities, including the Township of Berkeley and the Ocean County Office of Senior Services, to take immediate action by installing street lights along this critical path. The installation should be prioritized to ensure that the area is safe for the hundreds of seniors who travel this route to participate in religious, social, and community activities at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church.

This is not just a matter of convenience; it is a necessity for protecting the health, safety, and happiness of our senior population. Let us create a safer environment for them by ensuring all entrances to our community's key locations are adequately lit.

Sign this petition to urge local officials to act promptly and safeguard our senior citizens' right to safe passage.