On April 25, 2024, the Transportation Coordinating Committee convened in Wasatch County, Utah, to discuss the development of a comprehensive safety action plan aimed at enhancing roadway safety across the region. This initiative, which has been in progress for about a year, involves collaboration with Kimley Horn and Associates, with significant contributions from local governments and community workshops.

Kip, a key presenter at the meeting, emphasized the importance of the safety action plan in enabling communities to qualify for federal Safe Streets for All implementation grants. The plan is designed to provide a structured approach to improving safety on local roadways, with a focus on data-driven strategies tailored to specific geographic areas. The comprehensive report, which spans approximately 1,300 pages, includes detailed analyses of roadway crashes and recommended safety improvements for various communities.

The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts that have taken place, including two rounds of workshops that gathered valuable feedback from local stakeholders. Kip acknowledged the hard work of Jade Bozen, who played a crucial role in transforming data into actionable insights. The plan divides the five-county area into 11 smaller focus areas, allowing for targeted strategies that reflect the unique needs of each community.

In addition to the main safety plan, the committee discussed the adoption of safety resolutions by local governments, which align with the recommendations from the committee. These resolutions signify a commitment to prioritizing safety in transportation planning and project implementation.

Kip also encouraged local leaders to engage with neighboring communities to share experiences and learn from innovative safety measures being implemented elsewhere, particularly in Salt Lake City. This collaborative approach aims to foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement in roadway design and traffic management.

As the meeting concluded, the committee underscored the plan's role as a living document that will be updated periodically to reflect new data and evolving safety needs. The anticipated next steps include further community engagement and the implementation of safety projects that align with the strategies outlined in the action plan. This initiative represents a significant step toward enhancing transportation safety and accessibility in Wasatch County and surrounding areas.