I am writing in strong support of the resolution recognizing Lakewood’s crossing guards and their contributions to our community.
Through my involvement in Safe Routes to School work, including conducting intersection audits around Lakewood, I have seen firsthand how crossing guards help create safer and more welcoming streets for everyone. Their presence supports students walking and biking to school, improves safety for all pedestrians, and helps drivers navigate busy crossings more predictably. Crossing guards do far more than stop traffic. They help create conditions where walking and biking to school can happen safely and reliably, recognizing that transportation decisions are shaped by many factors — from family routines and distance to access and necessity — rather than simple choice alone. They provide a visible reminder that children and pedestrians belong in our streets and that safety is a shared responsibility. Their presence benefits not only students but also adult walkers, cyclists, and drivers by improving predictability and reducing conflict at busy crossings. As our community continues investing in Safe Routes to School and intersection improvements, crossing guards remain an essential part of a comprehensive safety strategy. They help bridge the gaps between infrastructure and everyday reality, ensuring that our transportation network works as a connected system where people can move safely and continuously on foot from one part of the city to another. Recognizing their service also reflects the values that have long shaped Lakewood’s identity as a walkable community. I have consistently observed crossing guards perform their duties with professionalism, patience, and kindness — often in challenging weather and traffic conditions — and their work helps make Lakewood a safer and more connected community. Thank you for considering this resolution and for recognizing the dedicated individuals who help keep our streets safe every school day.
I am writing in strong support of the resolution recognizing Lakewood’s crossing guards and their contributions to our community.
Through my involvement in Safe Routes to School work, including conducting intersection audits around Lakewood, I have seen firsthand how crossing guards help create safer and more welcoming streets for everyone. Their presence supports students walking and biking to school, improves safety for all pedestrians, and helps drivers navigate busy crossings more predictably. Crossing guards do far more than stop traffic. They help create conditions where walking and biking to school can happen safely and reliably, recognizing that transportation decisions are shaped by many factors — from family routines and distance to access and necessity — rather than simple choice alone. They provide a visible reminder that children and pedestrians belong in our streets and that safety is a shared responsibility. Their presence benefits not only students but also adult walkers, cyclists, and drivers by improving predictability and reducing conflict at busy crossings. As our community continues investing in Safe Routes to School and intersection improvements, crossing guards remain an essential part of a comprehensive safety strategy. They help bridge the gaps between infrastructure and everyday reality, ensuring that our transportation network works as a connected system where people can move safely and continuously on foot from one part of the city to another. Recognizing their service also reflects the values that have long shaped Lakewood’s identity as a walkable community. I have consistently observed crossing guards perform their duties with professionalism, patience, and kindness — often in challenging weather and traffic conditions — and their work helps make Lakewood a safer and more connected community. Thank you for considering this resolution and for recognizing the dedicated individuals who help keep our streets safe every school day.