I have been serving as staff at Seminole Heights Elementary School for 37 years and during my tenure, I have seen the essential role the traffic light at Hanna & Central Avenue has played in safeguarding our children. Unfortunately, a decision has been made to replace this signal light with a 4-way stop by this December. This intersection, located amid Florida Ave & Nebraska, and Hillsborough Ave & Sligh, is a critical area for the children and pedestrian crossing alike.

Being in a public-school zone, the safety of our students is a paramount concern. With the removal of this traffic light, we can foresee a significant increase in road risks and vulnerability for the children, pedestrians and even the traffic guard. Many evidences suggest that traffic lights have been efficient at reducing accidents, particularly pedestrian related. A study in British Columbia, Canada discovered that intersections with traffic lights had a 69% less chance of fatal crashes than those governed by stop signs (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 2010).

The trade-off of this change is simply too risky and unjustifiable, sacrificing children’s safety in exchange for what? We urge the authorities to reconsider their decision. Let's act now to shield our precious young ones from harm. Don’t wait until a tragic loss rallies us into action. Maintain the traffic light at Hanna & Central Avenue, and secure a safer path for our children. Your signature can make a difference. Please, sign this petition today.