Boston: City Council Recognizes Pedestrian Safety Month

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~ According to recent reports from Boston EMS, the number of pedestrians struck by vehicles has significantly decreased since 2015, indicating positive progress from pedestrian safety initiatives. However, the start of this year has seen a concerning increase with 207 reported incidents, highlighting the ongoing need for safety improvements.

In response to this issue, the City of Boston took action in 2017 by reducing the default speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour. This measure was implemented to create safer streets for people of all ages and abilities and align with the goals of Vision Zero Boston.

Despite a national decline in pedestrian deaths, Massachusetts experienced a 16% increase in fatalities in 2024, with Boston accounting for the highest number caused by motor vehicles. To address this alarming trend, city officials have emphasized the importance of designing streets with strong pedestrian safety infrastructure such as speed humps, raised crosswalks and intersections, narrowed streets, lights, and signage.

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Community members, civic groups, and elected officials have also joined forces in calling for continued improvements through infrastructure changes, better traffic management, and stricter enforcement of existing traffic laws.

In recognition of these efforts and to further promote pedestrian safety awareness, October has been declared as Pedestrian Safety Month by the Council. This resolution reaffirms their commitment to creating safer roads for all travelers and urges continued investments in pedestrian safety infrastructure. Additionally, it encourages Bostonians to be mindful of their fellow pedestrians while traveling on foot.

Filed Under: Government, City

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