In a recent government meeting, officials from Orange County presented the Division 0 Action Plan, a comprehensive strategy aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2040. The plan, part of the Vision Zero initiative, seeks to address the alarming rate of pedestrian and bicycle fatalities in the area, which have reached 343 from 2019 to 2023. Despite improvements that have seen the county drop from the number one position for fatalities to 18th nationally, officials acknowledged that significant work remains.

The meeting highlighted several key components of the action plan, including the development of a high injury network, a countermeasures toolkit, and community engagement strategies. The plan emphasizes a \"safety first\" culture, aiming to proactively influence dangerous driving behaviors and implement effective traffic safety measures. The officials reported that they have already established a Vision Zero task force, identified high injury corridors, and engaged with various stakeholders, including the Florida Department of Transportation and local municipalities.

Funding remains a critical concern, with an estimated $264 million needed for safety projects across 24 identified corridors. Officials noted that while they have secured $3.79 million from a Safe Streets for All grant, additional funding sources, including state and federal grants, will be necessary to meet the ambitious goals set forth in the action plan.

The meeting also underscored the importance of public engagement, with officials conducting numerous community meetings to gather feedback and educate residents about the initiative. Participants expressed a strong desire for reduced speed limits and improved safety measures around schools.

As the plan moves forward, officials emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, integrating safety into all aspects of transportation planning and design. The adoption of the Division 0 Action Plan was unanimously approved by the board, marking a significant step towards enhancing road safety in Orange County.