Torrington Launches Safety Action Plan to Reduce Traffic Deaths by 50 Percent by 2030

Torrington, CT, is taking significant steps to enhance road safety following the final presentation of the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Traffic Safety Action Plan. During a public forum held on July 19, 2025, city officials and engineers outlined the project’s objectives and findings, emphasizing a commitment to reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries.

The SS4A initiative, funded by a federal grant received in 2023, aims to address local safety issues by identifying high-crash locations and implementing effective solutions. Nancy Datta and Bob Gomez from VN Engineers presented the plan, highlighting the importance of a "safe systems" approach, which prioritizes safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

A key aspect of the plan is Torrington's adoption of the Vision Zero resolution in June 2025. This global movement, which aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries, has been embraced by several Connecticut communities. Torrington has set ambitious goals to reduce traffic deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030 and to eliminate them entirely by 2035.

The project involved extensive community engagement, including public surveys and outreach events, to ensure that residents' concerns were incorporated into the planning process. The data collected revealed that from 2019 to 2023, Torrington experienced 20 fatal crashes, with a notable number of pedestrian and bicycle incidents. The analysis indicated that aggressive driving behaviors, such as failing to yield and following too closely, contributed to many of these accidents.

As Torrington moves forward with the SS4A Traffic Safety Action Plan, the city is committed to fostering safer roadways for all residents. The collaborative efforts between city officials, engineers, and the community aim to create a safer environment and ultimately save lives. The next steps will involve implementing the proposed safety measures and continuing to engage with the community to monitor progress and gather feedback.