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Hernando‑Citrus MPO adopts lower traffic‑safety target, approves consent package
Summary
The Hernando‑Citrus Metropolitan Planning Organization board approved consent items that include adopting Florida Department of Transportation performance measures and lowering the MPOs safety target from a 5% to a 1% reduction in deaths and serious injuries; the consent package passed on a recorded vote.
The Hernando‑Citrus Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) on Thursday approved a consent package that included adoption of Florida Department of Transportation pavement, bridge and travel‑time performance measures and a revised safety performance target.
Paul Esposito, MPO staff, told the board the consent items include approval of the Dec. 5, 2024 meeting minutes; a transportation alternatives agreement with the City of Brooksville that would require Hernando County oversight for federal funds; adoption of PM2 and PM3 (pavement/bridge condition and system preservation/travel time) consistent with FDOT recommendations; and a change to the MPOs PM1 safety target. Esposito said the board would lower the MPOs goal for reducing traffic deaths and serious injuries from 5 percent to 1 percent going forward, saying, "we're going to change it to a 1% as our goal reduction."
Board members discussed coordination among local agencies to address crashes and fatalities. Commissioner John Alaco said he has arranged meetings with the sheriff's office, fire and EMS and county public works to address recurring crash locations and to move beyond siloed responses. Commissioner Steve Champion and others noted rural driving patterns and a mix of contributing behaviors, including slow and fast driving, that affect crash rates in Hernando and Citrus counties.
After discussion the board approved the consent agenda on a recorded vote. Commissioner Steve Champion made the motion to adopt the consent items and Commissioner Jeff Kennard seconded; the chair announced, "Motion carries 5 0."
The consent package adopted the safety target change and the FDOT performance measures the MPO staff presented. Board members and staff said they would pursue coordination across law enforcement, fire/EMS and public works and pursue outreach and funding options to support safety initiatives.
The MPO also noted that the FDOT safety PM submission deadline was imminent and staff prepared the package to meet the state schedule.
The board proceeded to separate action items after the consent vote.
