Opinion: For our children’s sake, make Washington Avenue as safe as possible

The way forward for Washington Avenue has sparked fierce debate about security and gentrification amongst group members within the space. This op-ed represents one perspective of the continued debate. For an additional, see right here.

As mother and father of kids who should reside close to the five-lane freeway that’s Washington Avenue and who cross it to get to high school, sports activities, buddy’s homes, and the playground, we’re dismayed that Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson is just not supporting Mayor Kenney’s plan to make the roadway safer.

Our youngsters attend EM Stanton College, the place two-thirds of Stanton’s catchment should cross Washington Avenue to get their schooling every day. Many extra mother and father cross to get their youngsters to daycare on the Christian Road Y and different places. We really feel it’s crucial for Washington Avenue to be calmed to cut back rushing and unsafe turning.

I, Florence, grew up crossing Washington Avenue and now, 40 years later, I’ve a 13-year-old who’s subjected to the hazard of crossing the five-lane highway. The amount and pace of site visitors on Washington Avenue make me fear for youths going to Chew Playground or the close by companies. The intersections are so busy, notably when autos are dashing to activate and off Washington Avenue. I’ve lived close to Washington Avenue for greater than 50 years and I’m very acquainted with how tough and harmful it may be for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers.

I, Lindsay, take my two sons to play every day at Chew Playground. The usage of the median as parking throughout from Chew Playground makes it extremely unsafe to cross on our stroll house from college. I’ve identified kids who’ve been hit by vehicles on this neighborhood. My considerations are usually not rooted in “what if” however “when.” As a licensed occupational therapist, my job is to get sufferers up and shifting after a traumatic accident with many incidents being a pedestrian vs. an vehicle. The ache and challenges of restoration are immense.

We concern for our kids and our concern for his or her security relies on present developments.