Title
Resolution to Commit to a Vision Zero Initiative and Direct Development of a Vision Zero Action Plan for the City of Greensboro
Body
Department: Transportation
Council District: All
Public Hearing: N/A
Advertising Date/By: N/A
Contact 1 and Phone: Adam Fischer - 373-2861
Contact 2 and Phone: Tyler Meyer - 373-2254
PURPOSE:
The Greensboro Department of Transportation requests a City Council commitment for the implementation of a Vision Zero Initiative. The Vision Zero Initiative will establish ongoing interdepartmental and interagency partnerships, engage stakeholders and the community, comprehensively analyze roadway safety, and develop a Vision Zero Action Plan to substantially reduce roadway fatalities and serious injuries with a long-term vision of zero.
BACKGROUND:
Roadway crashes continue to lead to unacceptable numbers of fatalities and serious injuries in the City of Greensboro, the state, and the nation. Based on research, GDOT has found the Vision Zero framework used in a variety of US and international locations provides the City its best opportunity to improve transportation safety and reduce the number of roadway fatalities and serious injuries. The first step is to establish a Vision Zero Initiative to bring together internal departments, a myriad of external stakeholders, and the community. This process will include analysis of safety trends and factors in Greensboro, and will include the development of a Greensboro Vision Zero Action Plan. The action plan will guide the implementation of an ongoing, sustained implementation effort integrating engineering, enforcement, emergency response, education, and public policy. Initial support includes, the MPO Transportation Advisory Committee’s endorsement of the Vision Zero initiative and statewide support from NC Vision Zero providing a forum for collaboration with NCDOT officials and other NC Cities engaged in the Vision Zero process including Charlotte and Durham.
The City has retained VHB, a consultant with extensive safety and Vision Zero experience, to assist with development of the Greensboro the Vision Zero Initiative. Initial tasks include: developing Greensboro Vision Zero mission and goals; engaging stakeholders; collecting and analyzing data; assessing potential data improvement needs; identifying focus areas; establishing focus area groups, and conducting stakeholder meetings. VHB will provide a brief presentation on Vision Zero and its development.
BUDGET IMPACT:
A contract has already been executed with VHB to complete initial phases of the program development for $68,197. This was funded through 2008 Bond Funds. No additional City funds are required for City Council to demonstrate a commitment to the Vision Zero initiative.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
The Greensboro Department of Transportation recommends and requests that the City Council approve the attached resolution committing to implementation of a Vision Zero Initiative.