Safe Streets Encinitas pushes for change and safer roadways

ENCINITAS, Calif. — A growing grassroots movement is calling for safer streets in Encinitas.

Safe Streets Encinitas formed shortly after the death of 12-year-old Emery Chalekian, who was struck and killed while crossing the street earlier this year.

The group hosted a community event Saturday morning at Encinitas Community Park, where parents, neighbors, and city leaders gathered to demand long-term traffic safety improvements.

“We have to stop being distracted drivers,” said community advocate Sue Sherry.

Advocates are calling for lower speed limits, safer crossings, and better bike infrastructure throughout the city.

“I’d like to see action from the city,” Sherry said. “Let’s try it, let’s put up some of those signs that tell you you’re going 45 on Encinitas Boulevard. I don’t know why it’s taking so long.”

Several members of the Encinitas City Council attended the event, pledging to work toward safety upgrades.

“We want to provide for safe crosswalks, we want to provide for bicycles, and we want to provide for cars,” said Deputy Mayor Joy Lyons. “We’ve put forward a number of grants and design work for upcoming projects, Santa Fe is coming back, and we’re looking at projects along the 101.”

Among those attending was River Smith, the young boy who was injured when a truck crashed into Gelato 101 in downtown Encinitas earlier this year. His family joined others calling for safer streets and accountability from city leaders.

Safe Streets Encinitas says their goal is simple: make sure no other family has to experience the kind of loss that brought them together.

Emery’s father, John Chalekian, said he hopes the community will honor his daughter by driving with care. He asked residents to remember Emery each time they get behind the wheel, to slow down, stop on red, and stay alert.

Chalekian shared that another child, River Smith, told his mother he felt Emery was watching over him the night he was injured. “We have a Madonna watching over Leucadia,” he said, “And now maybe we have an Encinitas angel too, our Emery looking out for all of us.”