Back in 2017, at the request of safe streets advocates, Alexandria adopted a vision zero action plan with a goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries by 2028.
In 2018 they added new Leading Pedestrian Interval lights at some intersections and restricted No Right Turn on Red at others (or maybe both at some). Then over the summer, they reduced the speed limit on Route 1 between Slaters Lane and Four Mile Run from 35 mph to 25 mph. But if they're still working on new projects in 2019 and 2020, they aren't advertising them.
They put out a year one report for 2018, and it doesn't show much progress, which is expected since so many initiatives were still in work for at least part of the year; but it does create a baseline.
There were several dozen initiatives that they started or completed in 2018 (and a few they had not) and more for 2019. Some of the statewide initiatives - like a hands-free driving law - were out of their power, but might have found more receptive ears in the new state legislature.
The year one report also identified goals for 2019
• Establish crosswalk policy of when each type of crosswalk is called for, implement the policy with paving
• Upgrade 20 more crosswalks with high visibility crossings, where warranted
• Develop a concept design for at least one high crash location
• Install 10 no right on red restrictions near pedestrian crash locations or intersections with high pedestrian volumes and LPIs to correspond
• Upgrade 25 curb ramps to improve accessibility
• Install or upgrade 3 safe crossings for uncontrolled crossings or crossing locations, especially in neighborhoods of color and/or low-income areas.
• Implement or complete recommendations for safe routes to school improvements at 6 schools
• Examine and improve pedestrian signal timings at 10 intersections near senior facilities, parks, playgrounds, or daycare centers. Install 15 low-cost safety improvements, including road marking, signs, signal modifications, at intersections near affordable and/or public housing locations
• Implement one neighborhood slow zone, prioritizing areas with children, seniors, communities of color, and low-income areas.
• Install speed control measures in 5 locations that meet traffic calming criteria
• Close 8 sidewalk gaps in the City, especially near schools and parks
• Install left-turn traffic calming at one priority intersection as appropriate
It would be a shame if this effort peters out so quickly. Unfortunately, not everyone sees it that way. Some see this as a foolish effort, especially in light of the contentious Seminary Road Complete Streets Project.
The city has adopted this Vision Zero program as part of the attempt by city officials to remove automobiles from Alexandria’s streets.
One writer warns.
The city’s last resort is to remove cars from the streets by making the congestion even worse so residents must find other modes of transportation, such as bikes, scooters or Dash buses. Or we can walk.
I'm not sure that removing cars from the street is how congestion works.
Another writer adds that
the fundamental purpose of our roads: the efficient movement of people and goods to their intended destinations....our safety goals must be balanced against the imperative of an efficient flow of traffic.
Safety is job #2 (or worse). I've said it before, but as long as people place convenience over safety, our roads won't be safe.
Alexandria has a lot of work to do to set their Vision Zero goal. I hope they haven't lost steam.
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