Hundreds Rally for Safer Roads at 14th Annual STOP For Nikhil Event

West Orange, NJ — On Sunday, September 22nd, 2024, the Nikhil Badlani Foundation hosted the 14th annual STOP For Nikhil Run/Walk/Bike Ride at West Orange High School, drawing hundreds of participants to raise awareness for traffic safety and support educational and music scholarships for students. The event honors the life of Nikhil Badlani, who tragically lost his life in a traffic crash in 2011, and encourages communities to work toward safer roads for all.

This year’s event held special significance with the recent adoption of the Vision Zero Action Plan by West Orange—a plan aiming to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030. The township’s success in securing the 2024 NJ Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School Grant and a $450,000 federal grant to implement Vision Zero was, in part, spurred by Nikhil’s legacy.

The day kicked off with a powerful show of support as some participants rode their bikes from Newark and Jersey City to the starting line, underscoring the importance of safer streets for all. The bike ride component brought together cyclists of all ages, emphasizing the need for safe, bike-friendly infrastructure in our communities. By riding in Nikhil’s memory, they not only honored his legacy but also highlighted the universal need for safer roads—whether walking, driving, or cycling.

The ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Nikhil’s scout troop, Troop 6, followed by the national anthem performed by a West Orange High School senior. The Traffic Safety Youth Advisory Board then led participants in the STOP For Nikhil pledge, a key element of Nikhil’s Law. The event also featured a 5K run, 3K walk, Kids Fun Run, Bollywood warm-ups, raffles, food, and face painting. Awards were presented to the top male and female runners.

Mayor McCartney welcomed participants to the event, expressing gratitude for the community’s dedication to traffic safety. She acknowledged the importance of collective efforts in driving safety initiatives. “On behalf of the Township, I thank Sangeeta and Sunil Badlani, the Nikhil Badlani Foundation, the Youth Advisory Pedestrian Safety Board and the Township’s Pedestrian Safety Advisory Board for forcing the Township to focus on taking a proactive stance on road improvement safety measures.  We are here today to thank the Badlani Foundation for their efforts in getting enhanced legislative safety laws passed; and for producing events like this that allow all of us to become participants and advocates to help affect change for public safety.”

Sangeeta Badlani, Founder of the Nikhil Badlani Foundation, spoke about the foundation’s mission to improve road safety and shared how resources have been allocated to date. She emphasized that the funds raised will be vital for advancing initiatives to enhance road safety and nurture the academic and music talents in children. Following her remarks, she introduced Senator McKeon, who praised the Badlani family’s tireless advocacy: “I commend the Badlani family for their unwavering dedication to saving lives and their efforts to advocate for traffic safety reforms. I remain committed to continuing our collaborative efforts on legislation that will provide much-needed compensation and access to resources for traffic crash victims and their families, similar to the resources available to crime victims.”

Sangeeta Badlani then presented the Nikhil Badlani Inspiration Award to Safe Streets JC for their commitment to safer, more equitable streets in Jersey City. Colin DeVries accepted the award, stating: “On behalf of Safe Streets Jersey City, we are so honored by the recognition of the Nikhil Badlani Foundation. It was so inspiring today to see the breadth of support for making the streets safer. We all deserve to be safe in our communities, and it’s encouraging to see so many advocates and supporters across the state working together to protect all road users.”

The event served as a poignant reminder of the increase in pedestrian fatalities in 2024 and the urgent need for systemic solutions, as highlighted by the Nikhil Badlani Foundation’s ongoing advocacy.

Sangeeta Badlani concluded the ceremony with a powerful call to action: “Enough is enough. We cannot let more families suffer the pain of losing a loved one on our roads. Passing the Target Zero Commission Bill is a critical step, but it’s only the beginning. Together, we have the power to make a difference, to demand safer streets, and to ensure that no more lives are lost. This isn’t just about legislation—it’s about protecting our families, friends, and future. We won’t stop until we reach zero. Together, we can make it happen.”