TAC unanimously approves Regional Safety Action Plan, urges Board adoption so towns can pursue SS4A grants

The Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission's Transportation Advisory Committee unanimously approved a Regional Safety Action Plan at its Feb. 3, 2026 meeting and recommended the CCRPC Board adopt the plan so municipalities can pursue federal Safe Streets for All (SS4A) grants. Evan Haugh of VHB presented the draft plan and said it includes a Vision Zero statement targeting the elimination of transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries by 2045.

The project team reported more than 300 responses to a public survey and reviewed crash data from 2019'024 showing a fluctuating trend in fatalities and an increase in serious injuries. Crashes were categorized by land use (rural, suburban, urban/village) and by type: lane departures, intersections and crashes involving vulnerable roadway users. Staff highlighted behavioral contributors including impairment, failing to yield, unbelted occupants and speeding.

Committee discussion focused on implementation and funding. Chair Phillip Peterson asked whether the plan anticipates a future without SS4A funding; Roger Thompson of the Federal Highway Administration and CCRPC staff said some projects can be funded from other sources and many recommendations could be incorporated into routine paving and maintenance to achieve near-term safety gains. Staff asked TAC members to provide comments on the draft by Feb. 13 and said CCRPC will coordinate with towns interested in pursuing grant applications.

Bruce Hoar moved to approve the plan and recommend Board adoption; Joe Segale seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. The committee recorded the action to enable towns to meet SS4A grant eligibility requirements. The next formal step is consideration by the CCRPC Board.