“Miami-Dade’s Vision Zero goal is to end traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2040, while increasing safe, reliable, sustainable and equitable mobility for all.”
County Mayor Levine-Cava’s Vision Zero Program for safer roadways for all – should be supported by everyone. The funding of Vision Zero’s pilot liaison program is well-timed. (County looks to fund Vision Zero traffic program. Miami Today 16 November 2023) Leading cities have discovered that safer streets for pedestrians and bicyclists don’t have to come at the expense of automobile commutes. Often, small adjustments and improved designs can make big differences.
Earlier this month, Johns Hopkins University published a detailed analysis of factors affecting urban roadway safety (A National Investigation on the Impacts of Lane Width on Traffic Safety). The authors conclude that small adjustments in roadway width can reduce traffic accidents by 60%. Narrow roadways can enable safer bike lanes and pedestrian walkways. This is important news as the County redesigns multi-use corridors like South Bayshore Drive.
Further, Johns Hopkins cites examples from elsewhere in Florida as role models for better design. FDOT guidelines now facilitate narrower-than-typical roadbeds that don’t impede traffic. Fort Lauderdale’s Powerline Road is held up as a glowing example. Who knew?
Vision Zero’s goal—executed with thoughtful designs from County transportation leaders—could bring us onto a better path. But we’re all still looking both ways before crossing.
Read more about the Vision Zero initiative.
