A Medfield student has been recognized for her efforts to improve pedestrian safety in her community, receiving the AAA Community Traffic Safety Award in Massachusetts.
Melina Simmoneau received the award last week in recognition of her work addressing a pedestrian safety concern at the intersection of Brook and Green streets.
Last spring, Simmoneau noticed that overgrown bushes at the intersection obstructed drivers' views of pedestrians and cyclists traveling through the area. After researching local regulations, she determined that the bushes exceeded the permitted height.
She contacted the town administrator by email, prompting the Department of Public Works to visit the intersection and trim the bushes to improve visibility.
Simmoneau then took her efforts a step further by attending a town safety meeting with her friend, Ellie, to advocate for additional safety measures. The two presented their case for installing a sign with flashing lights to alert drivers to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the intersection.
Their proposal received unanimous approval, and the flashing lights were installed in April.
Simmoneau's recognition with the AAA Community Traffic Safety Award highlights the impact of young residents taking an active role in identifying community concerns and advocating for practical solutions to improve public safety.
