Puget Sound Regional Council seeking public input for Regional Safety Action Plan

The Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) is seeking public feedback on its draft Regional Safety Action Plan, which addresses a troubling rise in serious road injuries and fatalities in the region. The public comment period is open until February 14, 2025, allowing residents to share their insights and concerns. Data analysis reveals that deaths on roadways have nearly doubled in the past decade, with a significant rise in fatalities among bicyclists and pedestrians. The plan aims to foster a culture of safety through a Safe System Approach, targeting vulnerable roadway users and identifying effective safety measures. Notably, Native American and Alaskan Native individuals are disproportionately affected, being seven times more likely to die in crashes compared to white residents.

The PSRC intends for this plan to align with local safety initiatives and enhance project selection processes for future transportation plans. Officials highlight that safety is a primary concern in the Regional Transportation Plan and aligns with the state's goal of zero deaths and serious injuries. Community engagement is encouraged through multiple platforms, including an online hub for comments and direct email submissions.