In the wake of a series of tragic and fatal accidents in Lake County — including a recent crash that claimed the lives of three young women from the community and left another in critical condition — Lake County officials will host a public engagement session to provide an update on the County’s ongoing Safe Streets for All initiative.

The meeting will take place on Thursday, April 3 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Tavares Civic Center, located at 100 E. Caroline Street, Tavares. All residents are encouraged to attend.

The Safe Streets initiative is part of Lake County’s commitment to improving roadway safety for all users — including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and runners — with the ultimate goal of achieving zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries. As part of this effort, Lake County is working in alignment with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Roadway Safety Strategy to create safer streets for everyone.

This upcoming public session will provide key insights from the County’s safety analysis and outline strategies included in the SS4A Safety Action Plan. Community input is encouraged, and attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the County’s efforts to improve traffic safety and prevent future tragedies.

The recent loss of three young women in a devastating crash has deeply impacted the Lake County community. In a statement following the accident, Eustis Mayor Willie Hawkins said:

“Sunday morning, our city received the news that four young ladies from our community were involved in a tragic accident. Sadly three passed away and one is in critical condition. Death under any circumstances is heartbreaking, but this hurts harder… I’m told they were inseparable friends; they were daughters, they were sisters, they were mothers. Four families are mourning today. Hug harder, hold longer, speak softer. Heartbreak doesn’t skip zip codes and streets. Speak grace…”

It’s tragic events like these that Lake County hopes to prevent. Officials stress the importance of community engagement and collaboration in the effort to make local roads safer.

Public participation is welcomed and encouraged. Lake County solicits input without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status.