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Today, the Syracuse Common Council will discuss Mayor Ben Walsh's Vision Zero plan, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries in the city. The plan focuses on enhancing safety for drivers and pedestrians through measures such as improved lighting, better crosswalk visibility, street lane reductions, and radar speed warning signs. The council may vote on the plan as early as Monday (July 28).
The Vision Zero initiative, first announced by Mayor Walsh in January 2023, seeks to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries while promoting safety, health, and equitable mobility. The plan prioritizes changes at intersections and roads where a disproportionate number of serious crashes have occurred. From 2019 to 2023, Syracuse experienced 563 fatal or serious injury crashes, resulting in 42 deaths and 608 serious injuries. These incidents highlight the need for action.
As part of the plan, the city has already implemented some measures, including speed cushions, dedicated bicycle lanes, and automated enforcement in school zones. The goal is to have no fatal or serious injury crashes by 2055, with a 35% reduction by 2035. Mayor Walsh emphasized the importance of public engagement, stating, "We want to hear from everyone—whether you walk, bike, drive, or take transit—because safety is a shared responsibility" as reported by WSYR-TV.
The plan, which has been in development since summer 2024, will serve as a roadmap for future safety investments and improvements. The city has conducted public meetings and surveys to gather community feedback, ensuring the plan reflects residents' needs and priorities. The Vision Zero Action Plan aims to slow vehicle speeds, design safe streets, promote a culture of safety, and commit resources equitably.
For more information on the Vision Zero plan, visit the City of Syracuse's official website.