On August 31st, tragedy struck our community when Ilona Kaydanov, a vibrant and active 22 year old with a passion for health and fitness was fatally struck by a vehicle while going for a morning jog with her two younger brothers on Harned Road in Commack. This devastating and heartbreaking incident has highlighted the urgent need to create safe spaces for pedestrians in our neighborhoods.

Ilona's dedication to exercise was an integral part of her daily routine. Whether it was running, walking during her lunch break, training at the gym, taking CrossFit classes, ballroom dancing or acting as a swim instructor – she always made sure to prioritize physical activity. It is heartbreaking that someone who valued their health and well-being so much lost their life due to inadequate pedestrian infrastructure.

 

 

 

“She was at least the 26th person on Long Island to die in August of 2023 as the result of a vehicle crash — including people on foot, behind the wheel, in a passenger seat, while cycling or while jogging.” - Newsday

We believe that no one should fear for their safety while engaging in activities that promote good health. Therefore, we urge the local authorities and relevant stakeholders to take immediate action by creating a sidewalk in memory of Ilona on the shoulder of Harned Road in Commack across from Donna Court where the family of 3 were struck.

 

 

 

“A solid white line on the road separates the shoulder from the vehicle travel lane. There is no sidewalk.” - Newsday

Sawmill Intermediate School is a mere 0.3 miles away from the site of the incident, and the installation of a sidewalk would play a crucial role in substantially reducing the likelihood of another tragic event occurring in the future.

Here are some key reasons why this petition is crucial:

1. Safety: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities account for approximately 17% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States each year. By providing dedicated sidewalks in our community, we can significantly reduce the risk of pedestrians being struck by vehicles.

2. Health Benefits: Walking is one of the simplest yet most effective forms of exercise available to us all. Regular walking has been proven to lower blood pressure, reduce stress levels, improve cardiovascular fitness and mental well-being – just to name a few benefits! By creating safe sidewalks in Commack, we can encourage more people to engage in physical activity regularly.

3. Community Engagement: Sidewalks not only enhance safety but also foster social interaction among community members. They provide opportunities for neighbors to meet each other, children to walk safely to school, and families to enjoy outdoor activities together. By investing in sidewalks, we invest in a stronger and more connected community.

4. Economic Impact: Walkable communities have been shown to attract businesses, increase property values, and boost local economies. By creating safe walking spaces in Commack, we can contribute to the overall prosperity of our town.

We understand that implementing sidewalks requires careful planning and allocation of resources. However, the tragic loss of Ilona Kaydanov serves as a stark reminder that pedestrian safety should be a top priority for our community.

Let us honor Ilona's memory by coming together and demanding change. Sign this petition today to urge the authorities in Suffolk County/Town of Smithtown to create safe sidewalks for pedestrians – ensuring that no one else suffers the same fate as Ilona.

Together, we can make our town safer for everyone who wishes to walk or engage in physical activity without fear of being struck by a vehicle.

 

 

Ilona was a very talented ballroom dancer, dance instructor, swim instructor, book lover, violin player, singer, writer, and runner. She also received her Masters Degree in Business Administration from Stony Brook University. She was wise beyond her years with the sweetest soul and the brightest smile. She was admired by everyone around her.