MDOT - Maryland Department of Transportation
11/06/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/06/2024 11:39
Vision Zero Public Meeting Announced
Maryland Department of Transportation Enhances Public Engagement to Promote Traffic Safety
GLEN BURNIE, MD (November 6, 2024) - The Maryland Department of Transportation is pleased to announce the first Vision Zero public meeting, an initiative to gather input from stakeholders, identify areas for road safety improvement and discuss ongoing initiatives. The Vision Zero public meeting is a strategy under the newly enacted SB 345, one of three bills passed over the last six years to help make roads safer for all road users and eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The meetings will be held quarterly, with the first meeting taking place on Thursday, December 5, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.In a commitment to transparency and public involvement, all meetings will be live-streamed, allowing for broader community engagement. Comments can be submitted via email at least 48 hours in advance of each meeting at [email protected]. A dedicated webpage has been established at ZeroDeathsmd.gov/visionzerowhere the public can access the live stream link, meeting minutes, public testimonies, and other relevant information.
"Saving lives and enhancing safety across the state's transportation system is our top priority as we are committed to Maryland's Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries," said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. "I encourage everyone to join in this vital conversation because having the community, local jurisdictions and the state work together is how we will pave the way for to a safer future for everyone."
The State's Vision Zero Coordinator will oversee the meeting, which will include representatives from the Maryland Secretary of Transportation's Office, Maryland State Highway Administration, Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration and Maryland Transportation Authority. Each meeting will feature a discussion of the State Highway Administration's fatality infrastructure reviews. Meetings may also include presentations from stakeholders.
"We encourage all Maryland residents to engage with us as we work towards safer roads for everyone," said Dr. Tim Kerns, Maryland's Vision Zero Coordinator and the Motor Vehicle Administration's Highway Safety Office Director. "These public meeting is an important step in fostering dialogue between the community and state officials, and we look forward to productive discussions."
The Maryland General Assembly passed the first Vision Zero legislation in 2019. Since then, the State has implemented various strategies, including the installation of safer road designs, improved signage and public awareness campaigns focusing on safe driving behaviors. Maryland has committed to ongoing data analysis to track progress and inform future initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping local traffic safety strategies. The Vision Zero initiative continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to reduce traffic fatalities and create safer roadways for all.
Learn more about the Motor Vehicle Administration's Highway Safety Office at ZeroDeathsMD.gov or on Facebook, X, and Instagram at @ZeroDeathsMD.