In a recent government meeting, Littleton officials provided an update on the city's ongoing Safer Streets initiative, aimed at enhancing bicycle and pedestrian safety. City Manager Jim Woods emphasized the importance of cultural change in promoting safer streets, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various departments, including Public Works and the Police.

Public Works Director Brett Satterlund reported that the initiative is approximately eight months in, with significant progress made in infrastructure upgrades, traffic enforcement, and public education. Key achievements include the installation of ten speed feedback signs near schools, the completion of over $8 million in grant-funded projects, and the installation of more than 800 school route signs across the city.

Satterlund also announced plans for a strategic plan for Safer Streets, set to be discussed with the City Council in early 2025. This plan will include traffic calming evaluations and pilot projects aimed at further improving safety.

David Gilbert, the city's senior media strategist, detailed the communication strategies employed to engage the community. He reported that social media efforts have reached approximately 80,000 impressions, and a recent survey indicated that over 60% of respondents felt that pilot projects improved safety in their areas.

Police Chief Doug Stevens outlined the department's proactive enforcement operations in school zones, which began in February and have continued into the new school year. These operations have transitioned from issuing warnings to citations as part of a broader effort to enhance school zone safety.

Looking ahead, the council has allocated $1 million in the 2025 budget for additional pilot projects. The next steps include analyzing traffic calming evaluations and collaborating with the Transportation and Mobility Board to refine future initiatives.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to creating safer streets through a combination of infrastructure improvements, community engagement, and law enforcement efforts.