Politics & Government

Wantagh Mother Keeps Fallen Daughter's Memory Alive Through Safety Bill and New Baby

Sandi Vega receives news of Gov. Cuomo signing "Complete Streets" legislation a month after giving birth to baby boy named in honor of daughter Brittany nearly a year after she was killed in tragic pedestrian accident.

Sandi Vega of Wantagh endured a mother’s worst nightmare last September 22 when her 14-year old daughter Brittany was and killed by Toyota Camry crossing Sunrise Highway.

As the year anniversary of her daughter’ tragic death fast approaches, Vega’s heartbreak still lingers, but this summer has provided some reason for celebration and hope.

A month after giving birth to a son named in honor of Brittany, Vega received word that the “Complete Streets” legislation in the State Legislature was signed into law by Gov. Andrew
Cuomo. Vega, with gathered more than 4,000 signatures in support of the measure, which requires all state, county, and local transportation agencies to consider complete streets design principles on all projects that receive both federal and state funding.

“I know Brittany is looking over us thinking it's wonderful that we are helping other families keep their loved ones safe from these busy, congested, dangerous streets, “said Vega, who has also about adopting their own complete streets measure. “I will sleep a little better knowing that we are moving forward toward making New York a more pedestrian friendly state.

"New York's roadways should safely accommodate all pedestrians, motorists and cyclists, and this legislation will help communities across the state achieve this objective," said Gov. Cuomo in a statement. "Complete Streets designs recognize measures that will make streets safer for New Yorkers of all ages and abilities.”

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Vega said she is hopeful that Gov. Cuomo will come to Wantagh for a special signing ceremony for the new legislation that will honor Brittany. Gov. Cuomo's office did not return a call asking whether he is planning a signing ceremony in Wantagh.

Complete Streets" principles facilitate improved joint use of roadways by all users, including pedestrians, motorists, and bicyclists as well as promote a cleaner, greener transportation system with reduced
traffic congestion and the resultant air pollution. Design features may include sidewalks, bicycle lanes, crosswalks, pedestrian control signalization, bus pull outs, curb cuts, raised crosswalks, ramps, and traffic calming measures.

Vega thanked State Sen. Charles Fuschillo, R-Merrick, who communicated for being instrumental toward getting the safety legislation approved.

Find out what's happening in Wantagh-Seafordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Complete streets design principles have been proven to reduce fatalities and injuries, and by taking them into consideration on future projects we will greatly improve the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers of all ages and abilities,” said Fuschillo.“This new law will result in safer roadways and I thank Governor Cuomo for supporting this law which will help save lives, prevent injuries, and make New York a safer place for all."

Vega is hopeful that the new law prevents other families from enduring what she went through last September. Vega has even more reason to continue advocating for safer roads after giving birth in July to a baby boy named Brian Tyler, which honors Brittany’s memory by having her same letters in both names. Vega said she was amazed when Brian was born at 9:22 a.m., which is symbolic of the date Brittany was lost.

“He has been a blessing,” she said. “Through him, Brittany’s spirit will live on.”


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