Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins has secured an $800,000 appropriation for the Citrus Grove School Children & Families Pedestrian Safety Initiative. This funding, provided by State Representative Alex Rizo, aims to enhance pedestrian safety for families commuting to Citrus Grove Elementary and Middle School in Little Havana.
Citrus Grove Pedestrian Safety Initiative
The initiative addresses significant safety concerns along SW 22 Avenue between 3rd and 6th Street. This corridor has a history of frequent pedestrian accidents, making it a high-risk zone for families. Key improvements to be implemented include:
- Curb extensions
- Mid-block crossing with Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) between NW 5th and NW 6th Streets
- Concrete safety islands
- Upgrading the existing span wire pedestrian signal to a mast arm at NW 22 Avenue between NW 4 Terrace and NW 5 Street
- Beautification enhancements
These improvements are designed to create a safer environment for children and families walking and biking to school. Commissioner Higgins expressed her commitment to ensuring that every child can walk to school without fear. She emphasized the importance of community safety and the peace of mind it brings to parents.
Collaborative Effort for Community Safety
The overall cost of the Citrus Grove Pedestrian Safety Initiative is estimated at $3.2 million. Miami-Dade County will contribute $2.4 million to the project. The initiative showcases effective collaboration among local, county, and state officials. According to State Representative Alex Rizo, when leaders unite, they can deliver significant improvements that strengthen neighborhoods.
This project stands as a testament to the collective efforts of elected officials to create safer, stronger, and more connected communities. Through initiatives like this, the community can look forward to enhanced public safety and an improved quality of life for residents in Little Havana.
