Los Angeles is a city known for its sprawling highways and heavy traffic. However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern for the safety of its streets. The Vision Zero initiative was introduced in 2015 with the goal of eliminating traffic deaths by 2025. Despite efforts to make the streets safer, the number of fatalities has continued to rise. In an interview with Laura Rubio-Cornejo, the new general manager of the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT), we delve into the top priorities, steps to enhance street safety, and the future of transportation in the city.
Top Priorities for L.A.’s New Transportation General Manager
Ensuring the safety of all Angelenos, particularly the most vulnerable, is Laura Rubio-Cornejo’s top priority as the new transportation general manager. She aims to create streets that are safe and inviting for everyone, regardless of age or mode of transportation. This includes implementing the Vision Zero initiative, which seeks to reduce traffic-related deaths. Despite the increase in fatalities, Rubio-Cornejo believes that safe street infrastructure is effective and that scaling back is not an option. The focus should be on addressing safe streets one community at a time.
Making Streets Safer: Steps to Take
Creating safer streets requires specific measures to address the needs of different modes of transportation. One successful example is the reallocation of road space on Avalon Boulevard, where a multimodal street was created. This resulted in reduced speeds and improved pedestrian amenities. Bicycle infrastructure should not only allocate road space for cyclists but also include traffic calming measures and additional protections for pedestrians. The key is to design streets that acknowledge the need for shared spaces and prioritize the safety of all users.
The Status of Vision Zero in Los Angeles
While the most recent progress report on the Vision Zero initiative dates back to 2017, there are plans for a more comprehensive update in the coming months. This update will provide a detailed view of the program’s effectiveness and recommendations for future actions. It is essential to keep the public informed about the progress and challenges faced in achieving the Vision Zero goal. Regular updates and transparency will foster community engagement and support for the initiative.
Getting Involved in Vision Zero
If you’re in Los Angeles and want to support the Vision Zero initiative, there are several ways to get involved. Participating in meetings and coordinating with the LADOT’s community engagement team are effective ways to contribute. Working with local council offices and attending community meetings to express concerns and preferences regarding infrastructure projects are also crucial. By actively engaging with the planning and decision-making processes, individuals can help shape the priorities and outcomes of Vision Zero in their communities.
Recent Changes and Major Projects in Los Angeles Transportation
In recent years, Los Angeles has witnessed significant changes and undertaken several major transportation projects. Over 20 miles of bus-only lanes have been implemented, improving public transportation accessibility and efficiency. The city has also focused on enhancing safety around schools through the Safe Routes to School programs. These initiatives aim to create safer environments for students and encourage active transportation options.
New Traffic Laws and Their Impact on Los Angeles
Governor Newsom recently signed several new laws related to driving, street safety, and transportation in general. One notable law, AB645, allows for the detection and enforcement of speeding. This law will have a significant impact on Los Angeles and other cities, as it enables consistent and accountable enforcement of speed limits. The implementation of this law will be closely monitored and evaluated for its effectiveness in improving road safety.
The Speed Camera Law and Its Implications
AB645, also known as the speed camera law, is an important step towards making Los Angeles streets safer. The law enables the use of speed cameras to detect and enforce speeding violations. The pilot program will run for several years, during which the effectiveness of the law will be evaluated through various metrics. This program will include cities such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, Glendale, and others. Consistency and accountability in enforcing speed limits will be crucial to its success.
The Commitment to Safe Streets
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation is committed to creating safe streets where everyone feels secure, whether as a pedestrian, cyclist, or driver. It is essential for residents and visitors to be mindful of sharing the same road space and to prioritize the safety of all users. By fostering a culture of safety and collaboration, the city can continue to make progress towards achieving the Vision Zero goal and creating a transportation system that serves the needs of all Angelenos.