Around the United States, traffic deaths are growing or plateauing, yet efforts to make roads safer still face political opposition.

In an article for KFF Health News, Vanessa G. Sánchez outlines the efforts local, state, and federal legislators are making to reduce traffic fatalities, which continue to grow or plateau in most U.S. communities. “In 2022, more than 42,500 people died on American roads, and at least 7,522 pedestrians were fatally struck – the highest tally of pedestrian deaths in more than four decades,” Sánchez points out.
States like New York and Michigan passed laws that allow local jurisdictions to set their own speed limits, letting cities lower speed limits in dangerous areas. “In Los Angeles, voters approved a measure that forces the city to act on its own safety improvement plan, mandating that the car-loving metropolis redesign streets, add bike lanes and protect cyclists, transit riders and pedestrians.
”At the federal level, the Biden administration has directed over $15 billion to road safety efforts and $5 billion in local grants. And while some advocates say the agency didn’t go far enough in reforming its rules, the historically reticent Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued new guidance that explicitly calls for pedestrian and cyclist safety measures and, earlier this year, proposed changes to the Highway Safety Improvement Program that would similarly include vulnerable road users in highway safety plans.

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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