ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA — During a small ceremony Friday on Kearney Street between Madrona and Andrea Avenues, a St. Helena ninth-grader was honored with the City of St. Helena’s first Community In Action Award.
Lucy Janev was given the award where she first began fighting for safer sidewalks as a first-grader, going before the St. Helena City Council to demand crosswalks at Madrona Avenue and Kearney Street, a route frequently used by students at St. Helena Elementary School and Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School.
In fourth and fifth grade, she continued to attend city council meetings and passionately voice her concerns. In sixth grade, she wrote another letter calling for further action to improve pedestrian safety.
Their determination recently resulted in the installation of new curb ramps with curb extensions (bumps) and an additional crosswalk at the intersection, significantly transforming the intersection and improving safety for all residents.
“Lucy’s determination and perseverance are truly inspiring,” said St. Helena City Council member Anne Chouteau. “Her efforts, supported by the voices of other concerned parents, have resulted in tangible changes that benefit our community and demonstrated the profound impact of civic engagement at any age. This collaborative effort is a powerful reminder that every voice can make a difference in shaping the future of our community.”
