Vision Zero PHL 2024: Paving the Way for Safer Streets
Traffic fatalities have been on a distressing rise across the nation, with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users bearing the brunt of this crisis. Philadelphia, like many other cities, is at a critical juncture in addressing this alarming trend. The city's commitment to Vision Zero, an initiative aimed at eliminating all traffic-related deaths and severe injuries, is more vital than ever.
The Urgency of Vision Zero
The statistics are stark: an increasing number of lives are lost each year on our roads, with a disproportionate impact on communities of color. In 2023, Philadelphia lost 125 people to traffic violence; 56 were pedestrians, 10 were cyclists, 11 were motorcyclists and 2 were on e-scooters. These were preventable deaths, and we need to act urgently. But how do we propel Vision Zero from a burgeoning concept to mainstream awareness and action? How do we expand funding needed to support interventions and policies that work despite political bickering and inaction.
Graphic: Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia
Vision Zero PHL 2024: A Day of Collaboration and Learning
These pressing questions and others will be explored at the Vision Zero PHL 2024 conference. Set to take place on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Temple University's Student Center South, this day-long event promises to be a productive gathering of minds and ideas. Attendees will hear from local and nationally recognized speakers and panelists, all dedicated to the cause of making our streets safer for everyone. Introductory remarks will be made by long-time streets advocate, Michael A. Carroll, Deputy Managing Director, Office of Transportation, Infrastructure and Streets.
The morning plenary session will address “Traffic Calming as a Community Effort,” and will be moderated by Rick Sauer from Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations. City and state legislators will be present throughout the day including Philadelphia City Council Members (Jamie Gauthier, Anthony Phillips, Quetcy Lozada), along with State Senators (Nikil Saval, Tim Kearney) and State Representatives (Ben Waxman, Ed Neilson). There will be an strong showing of advocacy groups along with urban design and developers.
A United Front for Safer Streets
Vision Zero PHL 2024 is proud to be supported by a coalition of sponsors and friends who share the common goal of safer streets. Among them is Piscitello Law, a firm known for its commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of cyclists and pedestrians. Presenting sponsors include AARP, curealeaf, Jacobs and Philadelphia Parking Authority. Notable friends include the Emily Fredricks Foundation, OneBeautifulPlanet.org, and Toole Design.
This collective effort underscores the importance of collaboration in the pursuit of Vision Zero. It is a reminder that safe streets are not just a vision but a feasible reality that requires the involvement and support of a wide range of stakeholders.
Join the Movement: Get Your Tickets!
The Vision Zero PHL 2024 conference is more than an event; it's a call to action. It's an invitation to join a movement that seeks to ensure safe streets for every Philadelphian, regardless of their mode of transportation. Get your ticket for this year's Vision Zero PHL Conference today and be part of the change we all wish to see. Together, we can turn the tide on traffic fatalities and move closer to a future where zero deaths are not just a lofty goal, but an actual reality.
For more info and to register, visit: Vision Zero PHL 2024