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Bernal Heights Residents Mobilize for Safety After Hit-and-Run Tragedy

Update Tragedy Strikes in Bernal Heights: A Community in Mourning The recent fatal hit-and-run that took the life of 30-year-old father Binod Budhathoki has left the Bernal Heights community in shock and sorrow. This incident marks the ninth traffic-related accident on Cortland Avenue in just three years, a street that residents say has become perilous for pedestrians. The tragedy occurred at approximately 2:10 a.m., just off the intersection of Cortland and Anderson streets, affecting not only Budhathoki’s family, especially his young daughter, but also highlighting broader issues around road safety in the neighborhood. The Community Reacts: A Call for Change At a recent town hall meeting, local residents voiced their frustrations and fears. Many described a chilling experience of near misses while walking their children to school or just taking evening strolls. District 9 Supervisor Jackie Fielder opened the discussion by acknowledging the weight of this tragic event, stating, "If we do not mobilize to prioritize Cortland as the high injury corridor that it is, it will not be the last." The harrowing situation has sparked calls for intensified safety measures. Statistics Tell a Troubling Tale According to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), there have been nine reported injuries on Cortland Avenue due to crashes over the past three years. With the rise in accidents, Cortland Avenue has made it onto the city's list of "high-injury" streets. In the face of this alarming trend, residents are pressing officials for swift action, including speed cameras and improved signage to deter reckless driving. Visible Loss: A Makeshift Memorial A poignant testament to the community's grief was seen just days after Budhathoki’s passing when friends and neighbors gathered to create a makeshift altar at the intersection where he was tragically killed. A shirt signed by those who loved him, along with flowers and heartfelt notes, stood as a reminder of the life lost too soon and the bonds that connect the residents of Bernal Heights. Searching for Solutions: What Can Be Done? Local authorities have begun to initiate changes, like installing flashing beacons at dangerous intersections. Nonetheless, these solutions can take time. "Adding new traffic signals can take between two to four years to complete and costs about $1 million," explained Viktoriya Wise, the director of streets at the SFMTA. The frustration among community members is palpable, as they seek immediate actions that could save lives. Controlled Measures vs. Community Concerns Some residents have expressed concerns about the balance between road safety measures and maintaining traffic flow in the area. A report from the Civil Grand Jury highlighted that while street redesigns could decrease injuries to pedestrians and cyclists, they often meet resistance from the community over traffic congestion fears. This gap needs to be bridged for truly effective change to take place. Community Voice: A Shared Responsibility The experiences and voices of residents echo the sentiment that community involvement is crucial in addressing these urgent issues. One neighbor emphasized the need for accountability, “I’m a new mother… What I’m interested in really is accountability.” This reiteration captures a collective yearning: not only for justice for Budhathoki but also for a safer collective future. Next Steps: Mobilizing for Change As the community grapples with its grief, they must also mobilize to demand comprehensive changes. Activism can be a powerful tool in pushing local governments to prioritize road safety measures. Residents are encouraged to report their experiences and work as advocates for the changes they wish to see in their neighborhood. As Binod Budhathoki’s family seeks emotional and financial support through initiatives like the GoFundMe campaign created in his memory, many in the community feel moved to contribute, not just in memory of a lost life but in support of a grieving family. It’s a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of crisis. Let Your Voice Be Heard The sorrow following this tragedy has sparked a glimmer of hope for change in Bernal Heights. Community members are now urged to participate actively in future town hall meetings and safety initiatives, ensuring that their voices resonate with the urgency of the need for action. At this critical moment, they have the opportunity to honor Binod Budhathoki’s memory not just by mourning, but by advocating for a safer neighborhood for all.