In the charming rural town of Murphys, California, our community is facing a significant and pressing concern. Caltrans has installed a median that has not only disrupted local life but has posed a serious threat to safety and accessibility.

This median has crucially impacted access to local businesses, affecting the livelihoods of our business owners and the convenience of our residents. The primary pedestrian pathway, which once offered safe passage to the market and local shops, has been obstructed and furthermore, the median has seriously impeded essential service vehicles. Tankers are unable to exit the gas station, and delivery trucks unable to fulfil their duties. Changes to the median since it was first installed have made matters worse and even more dangerous to both motorists and pedestrians.

Most alarmingly, this median has introduced a new hazard. Highway 4, which passes through Murphys, serves as the main evacuation route in the event of a wild fire or other emergencies. The presence of this median compromises the efficacy of evacuation plans, potentially endangering lives and property in our community. In a region where wildfires are an ever-present threat, an unhindered escape route is not a luxury - it is a necessity.

Livelihoods, safety, and the wellbeing of our community are at risk. We implore Caltrans to reconsider this installation and remove the hazardous median to restore safety and accessibility in Murphys.

Join us in advocating for the immediate removal of this median and bring this to the State Government level as all current requests to District 10 Caltrans employees are falling on deaf ears. Sign this petition to demand action, protect our community, and ensure safe passage for everyone.