By Mayor Marsha McLean
The summer months – especially in Santa Clarita – bring beautiful weather and a wide range of opportunities for residents. From backyard barbecues and block parties to wonderful events and nights out with friends, there is no shortage of places to go and things to do in our City.
It is important to remember, no matter what you do, to be a “Heads-Up” citizen. Whether you are driving your car, walking on the sidewalk or riding your bicycle, be aware of your surroundings and always exhibit safe behavior.
One thing that you should never do is get behind the wheel after drinking or being impaired by drugs of any kind. There is never a situation where putting your life and the lives of others in danger is worth the risk.
This is why I want to emphasize the importance of knowing your options for alternate transportation in Santa Clarita. Having a plan set ahead of time will not only make things easier on you, but it will also ensure that you, and others you would put in harm’s way by driving under the influence, arrive at your destinations safely.
For those traveling throughout Santa Clarita to our many restaurants, entertainment venues and other event spaces, Santa Clarita Transit offers local bus service daily for as little as $1 each way. Those leaving the Santa Clarita Valley can also plan their trip with Metrolink to get to and from popular destinations in the region.
Additionally, any time of day or night, several rideshare services are available, which offer users safe, convenient transportation in the City. It’s as easy as tapping an app to get home safely.
Over the last few years, the number of traffic collisions in Santa Clarita, as well as the number of injuries that result from those collisions, has decreased. However, it is the City’s and Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station’s goal to further reduce these statistics — particularly the number of incidences when someone has been driving under the influence.
Each year, the City of Santa Clarita holds an Evening of Remembrance at the Youth Grove in Central Park to honor 107 Santa Clarita youth who have lost their lives in traffic-related incidents. This year’s Evening of Remembrance will be held on Tuesday, September 17.
While the community will gather at this memorial to raise awareness about the importance of safe driving and the dangers of distracted and reckless driving, it is also critical that we take steps now to eliminate instances of driving under the influence.
The City of Santa Clarita is consistently recognized as one of the best places to live in California and the United States. Let’s all do our part to ensure it is also the safest by taking advantage of alternate transportation and never drinking and driving.
