Calling all residents of West Harrison! We are petitioning for the installation of a NEW sidewalk along Lake Street, connecting downtown West Harrison to the Brightview Assisted Living Facility. This proposed sidewalk is crucial for improving safety, accessibility, and mobility for residents, visitors, and staff traveling between these two important locations.

As residents living on Lake Street / parents of young children / and frequent walkers to downtown West Harrison, there are several key reasons why this sidewalk is needed, which we would like to highlight:

1.     Safety for Pedestrians: Currently, residents, walkers, and joggers often use Lake Street without a designated safe walking path. Many individuals, including seniors and families, regularly walk or run along the road, putting themselves at risk by sharing the roadway with fast-moving traffic. The installation of a sidewalkwould provide a safe space for pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents and encouraging a healthier, more active lifestyle.

2.     Access to the Preserve: The nearby nature preserve is a popular destination for residents and visitors, but the nature walk does not offer a full loop, and many people walk back to their cars along Lake Street. Without a safe sidewalk, visitors to the preserve are forced to walk along the road, which is especially dangerous as the road is often busy and lacks adequate pedestrian infrastructure.

3.     Transportation Access for Brightview Residents and Staff: The newly built Brightview Assisted Living Facility does not have public transportation options for staff and residents. The nearest Bee-Line bus stop is located in downtown West Harrison, but there is no safe pedestrian access to this stop along the busy road. A sidewalk would ensure that both staff and residents have safe, reliable access to public transportation, promoting independence and accessibility for those who do not drive.

4.     Family and Youth Pedestrian Traffic: Many families and children in the area regularly walk or bike into town to utilize community facilities, including the pool and park. A sidewalk would provide a safe route for these individuals, ensuring that they can enjoy these local amenities without the risks associated with walking or biking along a busy road.

The installation of a sidewalk along Lake Street would not only improve safety for pedestrians but also enhance the overall quality of life in the area by providing a safer, more accessible route for residents, visitors, and families. It would benefit a broad range of community members—from seniors at Brightview Assisted Living to children and families enjoying outdoor activities. We have included a quick graphic highlighting the route.

We kindly urge the local municipality  to prioritize this project for the safety and well-being of all who live, work, and visit in the area.