We, the undersigned members of the Joppa community and concerned citizens, hereby express our strong opposition to the proposed closure of Joppa Road between Route 7 and Route 40 in Joppa, Maryland. The Harford County Council's plan to close Joppa Road due to safety concerns regarding vehicle collisions with trains threatens to disrupt essential connectivity and jeopardize public safety in our community.

While safety is paramount, the frequency of reported accidents on Joppa Road does not warrant its closure. With only three recorded incidents between 2008 and 2012, the data suggests that the road remains safe for travel. Moreover, Joppa Road serves as a critical thruway between Route 7 and Route 40, facilitating daily commutes, commerce, and emergency services.

Our local volunteer fire station has voiced concerns about the potential closure, citing the lack of alternative routes to access Route 7 and the adverse impact on emergency response times. During incidents on Interstate 95, Joppa Road becomes even more vital, providing a necessary diversion route for traffic and emergency vehicles.

Closing Joppa Road will lead to unnecessary harm and inconvenience for our community. It will exacerbate congestion, delay emergency response times, and disrupt the flow of commerce and daily life for residents and businesses alike.

Therefore, we call upon the Harford County Council to reconsider the decision to close Joppa Road and explore alternative solutions to address safety concerns while preserving the essential connectivity it provides to our community.

By signing this petition, we urge the Harford County Council to prioritize the well-being and needs of the Joppa community and to engage in open dialogue with residents, stakeholders, and local authorities to find a solution that ensures both safety and accessibility.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.