As a concerned resident of the Lower East Side in Manhattan, New York, NY, USA, I am writing this petition to address a critical safety issue that poses a significant threat to our community. The intersection of Columbia and Broome Street has become an alarming hazard and danger zone due to reckless speeding cars that disregard the presence of children, schools, and pedestrians attempting to cross the street.

Every morning as I walk my children along this route, I witness firsthand the terrifying sight of cars zooming down this block without any regard for their surroundings. The blind spot created by parked vehicles on the corner further exacerbates the danger faced by pedestrians attempting to cross safely.

Despite numerous complaints from concerned residents like myself, it is disheartening to learn that the Department of Transportation has denied issuing a stop sign at this intersection. Their reasoning is based on Broome Street not being classified as a main street for traffic flow. However, it is crucial for us to make them aware of just how perilous this situation truly is.

To emphasize our urgent need for action at Columbia and Broome Street intersection, let's consider some relevant facts:

1. High Pedestrian Traffic: This area witnesses heavy foot traffic throughout the day due to nearby schools such as P.S. 110 Florence Nightengale School, P.S. 42 Benjamin Altman School and P.S 130 Hernando De Soto School.
(Source: Local school district records)

2. Unawareness Among Drivers: Many drivers passing through this junction are unaware or neglectful of pedestrian activity due to poor visibility caused by parked vehicles.
(Source: Personal observations)

3. Speeding Concerns: Cars frequently exceed speed limits on Columbia Street without any traffic calming measures in place.
(Source: Local police reports)

4. Potential Accidents: Without appropriate safety measures like stop signs or speed bumps in place, there is an increased risk of accidents, potentially resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
(Source: Local police records)

We, the concerned residents of the Lower East Side, urge the Department of Transportation to reconsider their decision and take immediate action to ensure the safety of our community. By installing a stop sign or speed bump at the intersection of Columbia Street and Broome Street, we can significantly reduce speeding and create a safer environment for pedestrians, especially our children.

Together, let's make our voices heard and demand that necessary safety measures be implemented promptly. Sign this petition today to protect our loved ones from potential harm and create a secure crossing point at this hazardous junction.

[Emily Klibanksy]
[500 Grand Street]
[New York, NY]
[emilykklibansky@gmail.com]