I, a concerned resident of Ocala, FL, urgently call upon County authorities and Commissioners to take immediate action and upgrade Maricamp Road with sidewalks, street lamps, traffic/speed cameras, and an increase in law enforcement presence. This petition is personal to me because myself, my family, and countless other residents use this road every single day. It's becoming increasingly more dangerous to drive on due to reckless speeding and a lack of attention from drivers.

This week alone, from September 11-16, our community has witnessed two pedestrians being hit by vehicles on this road. Shockingly enough, one pedestrian was even struck by two separate cars! These incidents highlight the urgent need for safety measures on Maricamp Road.

Furthermore, on September 15th between 12pm-7pm alone - just within a span of seven hours - there were four accidents reported along with several near misses. The root cause behind these alarming numbers is clear: people simply aren't looking up and paying attention while driving, and they're definitely exceeding the posted speed limit. We cannot afford to wait any longer; immediate action must be taken before more lives are put at risk.

To address these pressing concerns and ensure the safety of all residents who rely on this vital roadway daily for commuting or recreational purposes:

1. Sidewalks: Installing sidewalks along both sides of the road will provide pedestrians with a designated space away from vehicles' path. This will significantly reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents.

2. Street Lamps: Proper illumination is crucial for nighttime visibility along this road. By installing street lamps at regular intervals throughout its length, we can enhance visibility and deter potential criminal activities.

3. Traffic/Speed Cameras: Implementing traffic/speed cameras will serve as an effective deterrent against reckless driving behavior such as speeding or running red lights. This will encourage drivers to adhere to the posted speed limits and traffic regulations, ultimately reducing accidents.

4. Increased Law Enforcement Presence: We urgently need more police presence on Maricamp Road. Regular patrols and ticket enforcement will discourage reckless driving, improve compliance with traffic laws, and ensure the safety of all road users.

By upgrading this road with sidewalks, street lamps, traffic/speed cameras, and increasing law enforcement presence, we can create a safer environment for everyone who travels along 17th Maricamp Road.

I implore the County authorities and Commissioners to prioritize this issue promptly by allocating necessary resources and funding towards these essential safety measures. Together, let's make our voices heard for a safer Ocala!

Mikki Manning 
Ocala, Fl 34480