The Vision Zero Network aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries while promoting safe, equitable mobility for all. The network outlines nine steps to commit to the Vision Zero goal. Let's explore them together:
Developing a successful Vision Zero action plan starts with strong political commitment. It is crucial for the highest-ranking local officials, such as the Mayor, City Council, and City Manager, to make an official and public commitment to the Vision Zero goal of achieving zero traffic fatalities and severe injuries. This commitment should be made within a set timeframe to create a sense of urgency and accountability. To demonstrate this commitment, local policies should be passed that outline specific goals, timelines, stakeholders, and a commitment to community engagement, transparency, and equitable outcomes.
The success of a Vision Zero action plan also relies on strong multi-disciplinary leadership. It is essential to create an official city Vision Zero Taskforce or Leadership Committee that is responsible for leading the planning effort. This Taskforce should include high-ranking representatives from various departments, including the Office of the Mayor, Police, Transportation, Public Health, Planning, Fire, Emergency Services, Public Works, District Attorney, Office of Senior Services, Disability, and the School District. By involving representatives from these departments, a holistic and coordinated approach can be taken towards achieving the Vision Zero goal.
To effectively work towards zero traffic fatalities, a comprehensive Vision Zero Action Plan must be developed. This plan should be created within one year of the initial commitment and should include clear strategies, identified owners for each strategy, interim targets, timelines, and performance measures. It serves as a roadmap for implementing the necessary actions and interventions to improve traffic safety. The Action Plan should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure progress is being made and to adapt to changing circumstances.
An equitable approach is a fundamental aspect of Vision Zero. City stakeholders must commit to both an inclusive and representative process and equitable outcomes. This means ensuring that all community members, regardless of race, income level, or mode of transportation, have access to safe transportation options. To achieve this, measurable benchmarks should be established to address transportation inequities and ensure that resources are allocated to improve safety in all parts of the city.
Vision Zero requires meaningful cooperation and collaboration among relevant governmental agencies and community stakeholders. It is important to establish a framework that facilitates shared goals, coordination, and accountability. By working together, agencies and stakeholders can leverage their unique expertise and resources to address traffic safety issues more effectively. This collaboration should extend beyond government entities to include community organizations, advocacy groups, and residents who can provide valuable insights and perspectives.
City leaders must commit to a systems-based approach to Vision Zero. This approach focuses on addressing the underlying factors that contribute to traffic fatalities and severe injuries. It involves examining the built environment, transportation systems, and policies that influence behavior. By identifying and addressing these factors, preventable traffic losses can be reduced. It is important to emphasize the message that traffic safety is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in creating safer streets.
Data plays a crucial role in developing an effective Vision Zero action plan. City stakeholders must commit to gathering, analyzing, utilizing, and sharing reliable data to understand traffic safety issues. By using data, resources can be prioritized based on evidence of the greatest needs and impact. This data-driven approach ensures that interventions and strategies are targeted towards areas with the highest risk and can be evaluated for their effectiveness over time. Using a Fusion Sensor is a great way to put the most accurate traffic data in your community's hands.
Community engagement is vital for the success of Vision Zero. Opportunities should be created to invite meaningful community input and involvement. This can include having community representation on the Vision Zero Taskforce, conducting public meetings or workshops, utilizing online surveys, and providing other feedback opportunities. By actively involving the community, diverse perspectives can be considered, and strategies can be developed that reflect the specific needs and priorities of the community.
Transparency is key to building trust and accountability within the community. The process of developing and implementing a Vision Zero action plan should be transparent to city stakeholders and the community. Regular updates should be provided on the progress of the Action Plan and its performance measures. Additionally, a yearly report should be presented to the local governing board, such as the City Council, to ensure transparency and accountability in achieving the Vision Zero goal.
If you're ready to take action for zero traffic fatalities in your community, start by establishing strong political commitment. Encourage the creation of a multi-disciplinary taskforce or committee to lead the planning effort. Work towards developing a comprehensive Action Plan that outlines strategies, targets, and timelines. Foster cooperation and collaboration among relevant agencies and stakeholders. Partnering with Omnisight and utilizing the Fusion Sensor can provide your community with precise and reliable traffic data. This collaboration will enhance the accuracy of your Vision Zero action plan and contribute to making your streets safer for everyone. Together, we can make our streets safer for everyone.