Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray, Town Clerk Mark Bonilla and Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin recently unveiled Long Island's first "Autistic Child Area" traffic safety sign in Franklin Square. Joining the town officials at the event were Inga Krevatas, the mother of twin daughters who are autistic; representatives from autism advocacy and resource groups, Empowering Long Island's Journey through Autism (ELIJA) and Autism Speaks; administrators and educators from the Franklin Square School District; as well as members of the Franklin Square community.

"Keeping families safe in our neighborhoods is one of the primary obligations of local government," Supervisor Murray said. "By placing 'Autistic Child Area' signs we are raising the alertness of motorists as they travel on roadways that traverse areas where autistic children live and play."

The town officials explained that parents or guardians of autistic children could request signs be placed in proximity to their homes on town roadways. The town does not have jurisdiction over village and county roadways.

"We invite parents to call the town and request these signs be placed along the roadway in front of their home," the supervisor said.

Autism is a neurobiological disorder that affects the way in which its victims relate to others and local surroundings. It also influences the ability to communicate and learn. Murray noted that, as a result, some children with autism do not fully appreciate the dangers associated with car and truck traffic along roadways.

"If a parent or guardian of an autistic child is distracted for a moment, the youngster could easily run into the road," Supervisor Murray said. "Placing 'Autistic Child Area' traffic signs helps to ensure that the inadvertent actions of a young person do not result in tragedy."

Town officials believe that the "Autistic Child Area" safety sign is the first on Long Island. Members of various autism advocacy groups have said that the sign might even be the first in New York State.

"I am happy that the town was responsive and helped to make my neighborhood safer for my daughters," Krevatas said. "I encourage other parents with autistic children to contact Hempstead Town."

"It's really gratifying when government and neighbors work together to address genuine areas of concern," the supervisor concluded. "I am proud that Hempstead is an 'autistic friendly' township."