Having owned property on Catawba Island for nearly three decades, I have long envisioned a community where I could comfortably walk to local businesses on State Highway 53 (NE Catawba Rd) on Catawba Island. Unfortunately, the current speed limit of 50 MPH makes this vision feel out of reach due to safety concerns. People often exceed the speed limit, and I have witnessed numerous accidents on this road. I firmly believe that a reduced speed limit could vastly improve our community's safety. 

Every year, between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the island experiences a surge in population as visitors flock to enjoy the beauty and recreation it offers. This increase in traffic also elevates the risk of accidents and makes it even harder for residents and visitors alike to walk or bike safely. By reducing the speed limit from 50 MPH to a speed limit such as 35 MPH during these peak months, we can create a safer environment that encourages alternative, healthier modes of transportation, like biking and walking. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reducing speed limits in residential and high-traffic areas significantly decreases the likelihood and severity of accidents. Furthermore, communities with lower speed limits often see increased use of pedestrian-friendly spaces and a boost in local business as people feel safer to explore neighborhood offerings on foot.

With the statistics provided by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, SR-53 is the third-most dangerous route in Ottawa County, with 272 total crashes from January 2020 to June 2025. Each year, the highest amount of crashes occur between May and August.

The stretch from E Muggy Rd to E Sloan Rd on State Highway 53 is particularly problematic during high-traffic months. Witnessing speeding vehicles while trying to navigate the area on foot underscores the danger posed by the current speed limit. This proposed reduction is not just about traffic control; it's about protecting our community, the residents, and our visitors.

Join me in urging the local authorities to take immediate action by implementing this seasonal speed limit reduction. By doing so, we can turn Catawba Island into a model of community safety and pedestrian-friendly living. Please sign this petition to show your support for a safer, more sustainable Catawba Island.

With enough support from the community, we will be asking for the reduction from the Ohio Department of Transportation with support from the local city council, and our state representatives.