Oklahoma City unveils Vision Zero action plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and enhance safety

The Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on January 24, 2025, spotlighted the ambitious Vision Zero initiative aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Oklahoma City. Varol Orozco from Kimberly Horne Associates presented a comprehensive overview of the Vision Zero action plan, emphasizing its commitment to safety, equity, and community engagement.

Orozco outlined the plan's structure, which includes a visionary framework, detailed analysis, and actionable recommendations. Central to the initiative is the mission statement developed through collaboration with the Vision Zero advisory board, which states that Oklahoma City aims to eliminate road fatalities through strategic infrastructure improvements, policy advocacy, and inclusive education.

The presentation highlighted the extensive public engagement efforts conducted from June to December 2024, which included a regional safety summit and multiple workshops. These initiatives garnered significant community input, with approximately 1,800 contributions from residents, showcasing a strong public interest in traffic safety.

The commission also noted the importance of equity in the Vision Zero plan, a requirement under the federally funded Safe Streets and Roads for All program. The next steps include finalizing the action plan and presenting it to the city council for approval in February.

This proactive approach signals a commitment to creating safer roadways and fostering a vibrant community, setting a precedent for other cities to follow in prioritizing traffic safety and public engagement.