How Communities Can Leverage Federal Vision Zero Funding To Make Streets Safer

Writing in Streetsblog, Melissa Balmer and Leah Shahum outline some ideas for how cities can effectively put to use the annual $1 billion dedicated to Vision Zero projects through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program.

The authors outline the basics of the program: who can apply, due dates, and what kind of projects qualify. Encouragingly, they write, “This is a mercifully streamlined application process, so don’t be daunted! While a 20 percent match is required, there are creative ways to fulfill that requirement.”

Balmer and Shahum suggest ways that communities can use these grants. First and foremost, it’s important to develop a “strong and equitable” Vision Zero plan that “can help your community institutionalize Vision Zero, setting explicit timelines, deliverables, and accountability measures.”

Second, the authors write, “Think Big, Bold & System-Wide for Implementation Projects.” The federal funding can support infrastructure projects that put action plans into literal action, such as “widespread, high-impact, cost-effective design treatments” such as speed humps, improved crosswalks, and other traffic calming measures.

Thirdly, the authors highlight a number of projects that would qualify for supplemental planning grants, such as racial and health equity plans for roadway safety work, reforming traffic enforcement with a focus on safety without over-criminalization, and education on Safe System principles.