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10-Year-Old Student’s Pedestrian Safety Initiative is Funded with Proceeds From his Lemonade Stand
Coconut Grove’s bustling commercial district is taking a major step toward pedestrian safety with today’s launch of the innovative “See Me Flags” crosswalk program – just in time for the first day of classes. This new initiative, aimed at protecting schoolchildren and pedestrians, debuts August 20 at the intersection near St. Stephen’s Episcopal Day School, located at 3439 Main Highway, Coconut Grove, Fla. See Video Here
The program, which features brightly colored hand-held flags for pedestrians, will soon expand to other key locations throughout the Central Grove. The initiative was inspired by Lucas Kwiatkowski, a 10-year-old St. Stephen’s student who advocated for the program after discovering its potential to enhance pedestrian safety.
“I walk and bike a lot in my neighborhood and wanted to help make our streets and crosswalks safer for everyone, especially children,” said Lucas. “I did some research and found out that ‘See Me Flags’ can stop up to 80 percent of cars when used by pedestrians. How cool is that!”
When Lemons Give You Life
Lucas’ idea quickly gained traction with the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID), which will pick up the cost of up to three more “See Me Flags” systems. But this first installment was funded entirely by the young Kwiatkowski himself with proceeds collected at – you guessed it – a lemonade stand!
“The safety of children in our community is a top priority for everyone within the BID, from parents and residents to business owners,” said Mark Burns, Executive Director of the Coconut Grove BID.
In addition, BID’s Block-by-Block team is handling the flag system installations. “We believe it’s important to protect these kids as they traverse the streets and sidewalks of the Central Grove, dashing into and out of shops and food markets and heading to and from school,” Burns added.
How “See Me Flags” Work
The concept behind “See Me Flags” is simple yet effective. Pedestrians pick up a bright orange flag from a container at both sides of busy intersections. Holding the flag high as they cross, pedestrians can increase their visibility to drivers, who are more likely to yield. Once they safely reach the other side, pedestrians return the flag to a container for the next user.
IN PHOTO: Coconut Grove Constituent Liaison Javier Gonzalez City of Miami Commission District 2 displays the signature neon orange flag during a dry-run demonstration of the See Me Flags system Aug. 15 with (l to r) Lucas Kwiatkowski, BID Executive Director Mark Burns, and City of Miami Police.
In today’s world of distracted driving, the “See Me Flags” system provides an extra layer of protection for both pedestrians and drivers. Studies by the Transportation Research Board (TRB) have shown that crosswalk flags are up to 80 percent effective in stopping cars when used by pedestrians. This initiative is expected to benefit not just schoolchildren, but all who navigate Coconut Grove’s streets.
Acknowledging Lucas’s Contribution
Coconut Grove officials are grateful to Lucas for his dedication to making the streets safer. Lucas first brought the idea to the attention of Miami District 2 Commissioner Damian Pardo, who also serves as the Chairman of the Coconut Grove BID. Recognizing the importance of the initiative, Commissioner Pardo quickly moved to implement the program, coordinating with BID officials within hours to bring Lucas’ vision to life.
“Lucas’ idea is an example of the power in engaging our residents,” said Commissioner Pardo. “His determination to improve safety for his friends and neighbors speaks to his character and values. Well done!”
Originally, the “See Me Flags” crosswalk initiative was created by a father and daughter who desired to solve the problem of a dangerous crosswalk in their neighborhood for pedestrians. Now, there are successful installations at intersections from Florida to Maine, Washington state and Southern California.
Show and Tell Time
The rollout of this program highlights the collaborative spirit between community members and local government in creating a safer environment for kids and other pedestrians in the Central District.
On Aug. 20 at 11:30 a.m., Lucas and his mother Catherine will join with city officials, BID representatives, and officers with the Miami Police Department, as well as invited news media, to commemorate the official launch of the “See Me Flags” program at the crosswalk just east of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Day School on Main Hwy.
For more information on “See Me Flags,” visit https://www.seemeflags.com. Also visit the Coconut Grove BID website at www.grovebid.com.
