Tampa's Vision Zero initiative gaining national acclaim

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Quick Build road improvement projects in portions of Ybor City were designed to make travel safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. These upgrades were recently highlighted on Localinfrastructure.org

Posted

01/19/2024

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Tampa's Vision Zero initiative gaining national acclaim

Tampa's ambitious Vision Zero initiative, aimed at eliminating traffic-related injuries and fatalities, has garnered national attention for its impactful use of federal Safe Streets for All Grant (SS4A) funds. The city's efforts were recently spotlighted on localinfrastructure.org, a renowned platform that features groundbreaking infrastructure projects nationwide. Tampa's approach demonstrates how effective policies can yield swift and tangible benefits for its residents. From 2022 to 2023, Tampa received $22.6 million in SS4A grant funding, part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. These funds, supplemented by other federal grants, are driving the city’s transformation towards safer and smarter streets. Notably, the 'Quick Build' projects, true to their name, are rapidly enhancing city infrastructure. Recent successes include a new protected bike lane and vibrant street art on Cass Street, along with added bike lanes and traffic calming on The Avenida Republica de Cuba (14th Street). A total of 17 Quick Build projects are on track for completion by 2027, with larger-scale endeavors concluding in 2028. Under Mayor Jane Castor’s leadership, Vision Zero has become a key focus, especially given the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area’s ranking as the fourth most dangerous U.S. metropolitan area for pedestrians in 2022. The initiative's impact is already evident: traffic deaths reduced to 53 in 2023, down from 77 the previous year. By pinpointing hazardous roads and pedestrian-vulnerable areas, the city adopts a community-centric approach to transportation safety. Vik Bhide, Director of the City Of Tampa Mobility Department, stated, "Our commitment to Vision Zero is unwavering. The remarkable progress we've made is a testament to our innovative strategies and dedicated teamwork. We're not just creating safer streets, we're shaping a more connected and equitable city for everyone." Mayor Jane Castor added, "While even one death is too many, we've seen a significant reduction in traffic fatalities thanks to our commitment to Vision Zero. These numbers show that our efforts are making a difference. We are determined to continue leading the way in smart, data-driven infrastructure improvements." In addition to infrastructure upgrades, Tampa’s partnerships with regional entities are pivotal in projects like the Safe Routes to Places packages, enhancing citizen safety en route to schools and parks. These collaborations further the city's commitment to equitable community development. Tampa’s proactive stance and efficient implementation of Vision Zero serve as a blueprint for cities nationwide, proving that with strategic planning, support, and dynamic leadership, rapid and equitable infrastructure improvements are achievable. The city remains committed to pursuing further grant funding, continuing its role as a national frontrunner in intelligent policy-making and action-oriented approaches to urban infrastructure. To read the full report from Localinfrastructure.org, click here.

Tampa's Vision Zero initiative gaining national acclaim

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