Copacabana is a vibrant and close-knit community where families thrive and children grow up enjoying the outdoors. However, a significant safety concern has emerged for those walking to and from school, the beach, the skate park, and local shops, especially young children.

Currently, the footpath on Pueblo Street ends near the tennis courts, leaving a substantial and dangerous gap along Del Rio Drive. This section of road is heavily used by pedestrians, including school children, families, and beachgoers. Without a continuous footpath, many are forced to walk on the road itself, navigating traffic, parked vehicles, and limited visibility. This situation poses a daily risk to public safety.

Extending the footpath along Del Rio Drive is a necessary and urgent step toward protecting pedestrians, particularly the youngest members of the community. Such an extension would:

• Provide a safe, accessible route to schools, the beach, and local amenities. 
• Reduce the risk of accidents on a busy, narrow road.
• Support active travel and outdoor activity for children and families.
• Enhance the overall livability and safety of the Copacabana community.

According to the NSW Centre for Road Safety, well-designed pedestrian infrastructure can reduce pedestrian accidents by up to 40%. Footpaths also encourage healthier lifestyles and foster social connection, values deeply rooted in Copacabana’s identity.

The proposal involves a modest extension to the existing footpath, rather than a major development or transformation. It represents a small adjustment designed to respect and preserve the natural environment and the coastal village charm that defines Copacabana. By extending the current path, the goal is to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility while maintaining the town's aesthetic and character. This minimal addition is intended to blend seamlessly with the existing landscape, meeting community needs without compromising the beauty or feel of the area.

This is more than an infrastructure improvement; it’s an investment in the safety and wellbeing of our community. We respectfully urge the local council and relevant authorities to prioritise the extension of the footpath along Del Rio Drive.

Support this initiative by signing the petition. Together, we can help create a safer, more walkable Copacabana for everyone.