Central Florida Enhances Safety for Bikers and Pedestrians

News Summary

Bike/Walk Central Florida has released its 2023-2024 Impact Report highlighting significant progress in creating safer biking and walking environments. Key initiatives include the expansion of the Best Foot Forward program across several counties, the distribution of helmets and bicycles to children, and collaboration with MetroPlan Orlando on safety action plans. The ongoing efforts aim to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities, ultimately working toward Central Florida’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths by 2040. The community’s support continues to pave the way for a safer future.

Exciting Progress on Safe Streets in Central Florida!

Central Florida is buzzing with great news as Bike/Walk Central Florida recently unveiled their 2023–2024 Impact Report. The organization, which has been on a mission since 2010, has dedicated itself to promoting safe and convenient biking and walking spaces across the region. Their commitment to ensuring that our roads are safer for pedestrians and cyclists has truly paid off!

Improving Lives, One Crosswalk at a Time

A major highlight of the report is the expansion of the Best Foot Forward program, now reaching into Volusia, Brevard, and Marion Counties. This program is all about reducing pedestrian injuries and fatalities in areas that have often been seen as dangerous for those on foot or on wheels. With improvements in crosswalk engineering and enforcement, there are now 42 crosswalks that shine with enhanced safety! Imagine strolling down the street and knowing that crossing the road feels a lot safer!

But that’s not all. Hundreds of additional crosswalks are currently being monitored to ensure they meet safety standards. This proactive approach shows just how committed the organization is to protecting the most vulnerable users on the road.

Collaborative Safety Measures for a Brighter Future

In collaboration with MetroPlan Orlando, Bike/Walk Central Florida has been busy developing comprehensive safety action plans. These plans align perfectly with Central Florida’s Vision Zero initiatives, a national effort dedicated to wiping out all pedestrian traffic deaths and serious injuries by the year 2040. This goal may seem ambitious, but with the right plans in place, eliminating fatalities on our roads is within reach!

Empowering the Next Generation

Among its many accomplishments, the organization proudly distributed 1,392 helmets and 237 bicycles to children through their Bike/Walk Kids Program. This initiative not only puts kids on wheels but teaches them the importance of safety while enjoying their rides. And speaking of enjoyment, the annual Bike 5 Cities ride, held in October, brought together over 100 volunteers. It’s heartwarming to see the community come together for a common cause!

Advocacy and Education at the Forefront

Last year, nearly 100 advocacy and education events were conducted, showcasing the organization’s commitment to spreading the word about safe biking and walking. Educating the public and advocating for safer roads helps ensure that everyone is aware of the importance of keeping our streets user-friendly.

Diverse Experience Strengthening the Mission

Bike/Walk Central Florida has also expanded its staff and board membership, bringing in individuals with a wealth of experience and expertise. This diverse team is constantly working on a data-driven approach, leading to improvements in how drivers yield at crosswalks. Simple but effective tactics like in-street signage and stop bar striping have been acknowledged for their success and are being picked up by other agencies eager to enhance safety as well.

A Brighter Future for Vulnerable Road Users

The accomplishments shared in the Impact Report certainly paint a picture of great success for 2023–2024. The ongoing efforts of Bike/Walk Central Florida are paving the way for a brighter and safer future for all road users, particularly those most at risk — pedestrians and cyclists. With every initiative and every helmet distributed, the organization moves closer to its goal of making Central Florida a model for safe walking and biking.

As the community continues to support these efforts, everyone can look forward to streets that are not only safer but also more enjoyable for years to come!