In North Arlington, NJ, a town I hold dear to my heart, I recently experienced something that has shaken me to my core. On July 21st, l arrived at a heart-wrenching scene where a beloved goose had been run over on River Road.. Though I didn't witness the tragic accident, I stood by this beautiful creature as it struggled in its final moments of life. The image of its suffering is something I carry with me now, and it fuels my determination to make a change. Our community is home to a variety of wildlife, and the geese that peacefully roam are not just animals to us but are part of our everyday lives. However, their safety is increasingly compromised by the current speed limits on our roads. At present, cars speed through at 35 mph, endangering the lives of these and other precious animals.   
To prevent further tragedies, I'm campaigning to reduce the speed limit on local roads to 25 mph, with additional signage that includes flashing lights to alert drivers of geese crossings. These changes are not only practical but essential steps we can take to protect our wildlife. The need for action is urgent. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, lower speed limits reduce the likelihood of collisions and significantly increase the chances of survival for animals and pedestrians alike. I know there are others in North Arlington who share my love for animals and want to protect our natural heritage. By supporting this petition, you are taking a stand for the safety of our geese and for the character of our community. We can make our streets safer and ensure that all creatures, great and small, find a sanctuary in our shared environment. This area sees frequent foot and bike traffic due to nearby parks, river access, and ongoing community developments. The addition of bocce courts and a new fountain will attract even more visitors, further increasing pedestrian presence. Additionally, a new senior housing project is set to begin construction soon, bringing a more vulnerable population into the area. These changes highlight the urgent need for improved road safety to protect current and future residents and visitors alike. Please, lend your voice to this cause. Together, we can protect North Arlington's beloved wildlife. Sign this petition to reduce the speed limit and install protective signage. Let's make our community a safer and more compassionate place for all living beings.