On June 20, Councilwoman Judy Waldman met with two courageous young men to discuss sidewalk changes for Farm Life Road and SE 12 Avenue. Joseph Wilky, 14, and Xavier Barreto, 14, explained that they felt a sidewalk along the east side of Farm Life Road and along SE 12 Avenue would increase children’s safety in those areas. Mr. Julio Brea, Director of the Public Works Department, and Mr. Dennis Maytan, Director of Park and Recreation, explained to the young men that the areas of concern are already under consideration and, thanks to their courage to speak-up, they have gained a level of higher priority than other areas.
Councilwoman Waldman was very impressed with these young men, following the guidance of their teacher, Mr. Willie Wamble. Touched by their passion for the community and their interest in the safety of those around them, she called them “Future Government Leaders.” Mr. Brea went on to show the young men the City’s plans for SE 12 Avenue and explained to them the process the City will follow in order to meet county regulations for a safe and well lit road. As for Farm Life Road, it was agreed that a sidewalk does need to go in and Mr. Maytan will have a survey performed to estimate the cost of the project and what exactly will need to be done in order to accomplish this new goal of a safer, well lit area between Lowe’s and the entry to Granada Estates-approximately a 545 foot length.
When asked about their own plans for the future, Mr. Wilky replied that he planned to be a doctor of medicine and Mr. Barreto plans to study law. Both of these young men are on their way to Homestead Senior High School. As discussion about the safety concerns of these areas ensued, Councilwoman Waldman and these young men recalled having seen children and families walking in these areas as well as a few handicapped citizens in wheelchairs having to use the road, which made them worry for their safety.
Councilwoman Waldman asked that these projects be taken care of ASAP; Mr. Brea and Mr. Maytan are already working on surveys and continuing pursuit of the plans already laid out for each of the areas.
