THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, August 16, 2019 Page 9 ~ OP-ED ~ Actions speak louder than words By Julianne Orsino Ward 3 City Council Candidate M any Ward 3 residents who live near the Highland Ave./Fellsway intersection are excitedly waiting and watching for signs of construction. Although a work trailer has been installed, and we have seen new road markings on the Fellsway, there is still a lot more that needs to be done to make this intersection safer for all. The removal of the rotary/island will be a major step forward in realizing the vision of the Ward 3 residents that advocated for change. This change is happening because state agencies, state and local elected leaders, and community members worked together for the betterment of Malden. This effort was not quick nor a straight line to success. In fact, it has been almost two years since the start of our push for change. I gathered signatures from over 160 households to show our elected officials that this was a real issue. I led the initiative for the current common-sense solution and was able to articulate the benefits of prioritizing this long-term solution for a dangerous intersection to our City Council, elected state and local officials and many of the community members. We were able to achieve this significant improvement for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists at one of Massachusetts’s most dangerous intersections by working together toward a common goal despite differing personalities and perspectives. Politics and ideology were put aside to do what is in the best interest for the city and all who use it. I commend the residents of Ward 3 for always being polite, respectful and tenacious. I thank the elected officials willing to keep pushing for the right answer and a state agency willing to change course and invest in our City. I commend our state leaders and their staff who kept the community appraised of progress and organizational setbacks. As we move into the final days of summer, the community of Ward 3 waits patiently, politely and respectfully for the WE WORK FOR YOU! * Have your car repaired by Real Manufacturer Certiified Technicians * An I-CAR GOLD CLASS SHOP Highest Certificate in the Repair Industry * Premier Insurance Co. Collision Repair Shop for Geico, Liberty Mutual, Metlife, Progressive and more! * Over 30 Years of putting families back on the Road Safe & Fast! * ATLAS Stands Behind All Repairs with a Limited Lifetime Warranty 1605 North Shore Road, Revere * 781-284-1200 Visit us at: www.AtlasAutobody.com or call (781) 284-1200 to schedule your appointment today! intersection changes that are essential in providing children safe passage to their neighborhood school, that supports the ACTIONS | SEE PAGE 16
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