Petition for Increased Safety Measures to Protect Wildlife and Prevent Accidents in Gilroy, California

Who is impacted?

I am writing this petition on behalf of the concerned residents of Gilroy, California, to address a pressing issue that affects both our community and the local wildlife. The problem at hand is the alarming rate of accidents involving animals, particularly deer, during nighttime hours especially in the streets of Santa Teresa road and 1st Street. Currently, there is no rescue or first-aid medical help available to saved injured animals, so the injured animals (deer especially) are killed rather than being saved. These accidents not only pose a significant risk to our fellow residents but also result in the tragic loss of numerous innocent animal lives. Our community is deeply affected by the emotional distress and financial burdens that arise from these incidents. As compassionate members of this community, we cannot stand by while these avoidable tragedies continue to occur.

Facts:

• Increased traffic in Santa Teresa Road (Gilroy) due to new housing developments.
• What used to be Deer residence is now occupied by humans.
• Fewer Street Lights in Santa Teresa Road and 1st Street and its too dark in night to spot deers while driving.
• Most Accidents happen especially during Night time.
• Deer are most active at night between 6 and 9 p.m.
• No 24x7 animal rescue service available in Gilroy.

What is at stake?

The stakes in this matter are substantial, and it is crucial that we take immediate action to address the issue. If we continue down the current path, the consequences are grave. For our community, this means a constant threat to the safety of our residents. Accidents involving animals can result in injuries or fatalities, causing immense grief and suffering to families. Furthermore, the financial burden of repairing vehicles damaged in these accidents can be overwhelming, causing unnecessary strain on our residents' budgets.

Additionally, the local wildlife population, particularly the deer, faces a dire situation. The loss of animal life is not only heartbreaking but can disrupt the local ecosystem, leading to imbalances that affect the entire community. Furthermore, these accidents result in financial losses for local authorities who have to clean up accident scenes and dispose of animal carcasses. It is clear that both our community and the local ecosystem are at stake if we do not take immediate action.

Why is now the time to act?

Now is the time for us to come together and address this pressing issue. The frequency of accidents involving animals during nighttime hours is increasing, and we cannot afford to wait any longer. Immediate action is necessary to prevent further loss of life, both human and animal, and to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens placed on our community.

We propose that the local authorities implement measures such as improved signage, reflective barriers, creating safety corridors with reduced speed and increased lighting along high-risk roadways, especially during the nighttime hours when these accidents are most prevalent. Furthermore, we urge the establishment of an education campaign to raise awareness among drivers about the potential dangers and precautions required when driving through areas known for wildlife crossings. Also, ways should be found to  save these injured animals either by funding for animal rescue mission in Gilroy (or) by partnering with existing local animal welfare organizations to provide first-aid medical help & rehabilitation services to save injured animals.

By taking these measures, we can reduce the number of accidents, protect the lives of both residents and animals, and preserve the balance of our local ecosystem. We implore you to prioritize this issue and take immediate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

We, the undersigned, earnestly request your prompt attention to this matter and the implementation of effective safety measures to prevent further accidents involving wildlife in Gilroy, California.