Living on Park Drive in Rapid City, SD, I'm deeply concerned about the safety and accessibility of our roadways at night. Currently, Park Drive has streetlights placed only about every 0.2 miles. As a busy thoroughfare frequently used by commuters and students on their way to school and work, this lack of proper lighting poses significant risks to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

The insufficient lighting on this critical stretch of road isn't just an inconvenience; it's a serious safety concern. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 40% of fatal traffic accidents occur at night despite there being fewer drivers on the road. This statistic underlines the critical need for proper illumination. Additionally, well-lit roads have been shown to reduce accidents involving pedestrians by as much as 40%.

Numerous residents and users of Park Drive, including myself, have experienced close calls due to the poor visibility at night. These aren't isolated incidents, and the fear of potential accidents is a daily concern for many. It's critical that we address this issue before any more serious accidents occur.

We are calling on the city council of Rapid City to prioritize the installation of additional streetlights on Park Drive. This simple infrastructure upgrade could drastically enhance safety for everyone who travels on this road. More streetlights will not only provide peace of mind but will also contribute to the overall safety and security of our community.

By signing this petition, you're joining a collective movement to make Park Drive a safer place for all. Together, we can push for a brighter, safer future for our community. Please join us in urging the city council to take immediate action by signing this petition today.