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Pensacola adopts Vision 0 policy to target zero traffic deaths and serious injuries
Summary
The Pensacola City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-24 to establish a Vision 0 policy aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries; public speakers and council members discussed timeframes, state initiatives and implementation priorities.
The Pensacola City Council on a May meeting adopted Resolution 2025-24, formally establishing a "Vision 0" policy that sets a goal of zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries on city roadways.
Supporters and family members who have lost loved ones urged the council to adopt the policy and prioritize safety investments. "Vision 0 is a safety strategy aimed at eliminating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries on roadways while promoting safe, healthy, and accessible mobility for all," said Ricky Pesci, an Escambia County resident and downtown business owner who spoke in favor of the measure.
The resolution places the city's existing active-transportation goals into a formal safety policy. Council member Jones, the item sponsor, said the city had previously endorsed the Active Transportation Plan and that adopting Vision 0 is a logical next step: "It's setting a goal to have 0 fatalities and injuries…for pedestrians and cyclists because of traffic issues," he said while introducing the item.
Members of the public described personal losses and called for stronger street design and data-driven interventions. "So what can we do to keep that from happening to others?" asked Russell Stark, who said he lost his son after a collision. Karen Emmanuel, representing the West Florida Wheelmen bicycle club, said the group supports the policy and additional infrastructure to make roadways safer for all users. Steven Moody, a local cyclist and business owner, said Vision 0 brings access to established templates and grant opportunities from a national network of organizations.
Council members discussed how Vision 0 relates to state programs. Vice President Patton asked how Vision 0 compares with FDOT's Target Zero and whether the city's timeline should match neighboring jurisdictions; Jones said a 10-year target "is reasonable." Council member Baer and others said they supported the goal but noted elements of implementation, education and multiagency coordination would be required.
The resolution (Resolution 2025-24) was moved by Council member Baer, seconded by Council member Breyer, and passed by a 7–0 vote.
The council did not specify an implementation schedule or funding sources at the meeting; staff follow-up and next steps were not detailed on the record.
