WFRC Council aims for 2.5% reduction in roadway fatalities with safety action plan

The Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC) is taking significant steps to enhance roadway safety for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. During a recent Transportation Coordinating Committee meeting, officials discussed the implementation of a comprehensive safety action plan aimed at reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries by 2.5% compared to the previous three-year average. Although the goal was not met in 2023, the council remains committed to improving safety through various strategies.

Kip Billings, a representative from the council, outlined the next steps in the safety action plan, which includes applying for a $200,000 grant to conduct detailed roadway safety assessments. These assessments will evaluate conditions such as uneven sidewalks, overgrown vegetation, and traffic signal timing. The goal is to identify specific improvements that can be made to enhance safety in local communities.

In addition to the safety action plan, the meeting highlighted a recent $20 million grant awarded to the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) in partnership with local agencies. This funding will support the development of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology, which aims to improve communication between vehicles and infrastructure. This technology is expected to provide drivers with critical information about road conditions, potentially preventing accidents before they occur.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a broader commitment to leveraging technology and community engagement to create safer roadways. As the council prepares to apply for additional funding, they emphasize the importance of collaboration with local cities to ensure that safety improvements are effectively implemented.

Overall, the initiatives discussed during the meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing roadway safety, with the potential to significantly impact the daily lives of residents in Wasatch County and beyond. The council plans to provide annual updates on the progress of these safety measures, keeping the community informed and engaged in the ongoing efforts to enhance transportation safety.