Lindop 8th Graders, Mayor Call for Pedestrian Safety Fixes Near Lindop

(Broadview, IL) – On the first day of school, August 15, Lindop Elementary School District 92’s incoming 8th graders, school officials, parents, and the Mayor of Broadview will gather at the corner of 2400 block of 15th Ave and 15th Street in Broadview to rally for pedestrian safety improvements.

The students at the west suburban Cook County school district are calling on the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to install pedestrian crosswalks and proper signage at 15th Street and 17th Ave in Broadview, a busy intersection that currently lacks these essential safety features, according to Mayor Katrina Thompson.

"The aim of this rally is to promote pedestrian and bike safety in our community," stated Thompson. "15th Street and 17th Ave is a major thoroughfare, and it’s unacceptable that it doesn't have crosswalks or proper signage. We're proud of these Lindop students for taking a stand and advocating for change."

Thompson said that the project is an outgrowth of the village’s participation in a 10-week program with the Active People Healthy Illinois Walkability Virtual Academy to create an action plan that pursues policy or environmental changes in communities to enhance walkability and movability through community and transportation design.

“This is how I got the kids engaged to push for pedestrian safety changes at 17th and 15th St.,” said Thompson.

Lindop Superintendent Dr. Janiece Jackson expressed strong support for the students' initiative.

"We commend our students for their civic awareness, their initiative, and their commitment to creating a safer and healthier environment for all near the school,” said Dr. Jackson. “Their 'Run me my Crosswalks' campaign is a powerful reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety. We are proud to stand with them in this effort."

Lindop 8th grader Julissa Mendez said that it is “important” for students to lead the advocacy effort.

“Everyday it’s us, students who have to run across the street to get to school without getting hit by a car, and it’s scary,” said Mendez. “If we want to make the street safer for each of us, we can’t just wait on adults to get it fixed. It’s important that students speak up, too. We’re the ones dodging the cars.”

The students' advocacy project, being held in conjunction with Thompson’ “Move with the Mayor” health and wellness program, highlights the need for improved pedestrian infrastructure near Lindop school, says the Lindop Board of Education President Aaron Hannah.

“The lack of crosswalks and signage at 15th Street and 17th Ave poses a significant risk to students, families, and all community members who walk or bike in the area,” said Hannah. “The rally is an opportunity for the community to come together and demand action from IDOT.”

Rally Details:

• Date: August 15, 2024
• Time: 8:00 a.m.
• Location: Corner of 2400 block of 15th Ave and 15th Street, Broadview, IL
• Participants:
  • Mayor of Broadview, Katrina Thompson
  • Lindop 92 Board of Education Members
  • Lindop 92 Superintendent Dr. Janiece Jackson
  • Lindop 92 8th grade students
  • Lindop 92 parents

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