In a significant move to enhance road safety, St. Petersburg has secured $3.6 million from a federal grant aimed at reducing pedestrian fatalities amidst its rapid growth.
The City of St. Petersburg has announced a substantial boost in its road safety initiatives with the acquisition of $3.6 million from a federal grant. This funding is part of a broader federal strategy committed to achieving zero pedestrian fatalities. “The pedestrian and bicycle population has really exploded in St. Pete with all the activity that goes on downtown,” said Sgt. Michael Schade from the St. Pete Police Department, underscoring the urgency of addressing safety concerns.
The bustling activity in St. Petersburg has unfortunately resulted in an uptick in vehicular incidents, some leading to fatalities. Earlier this year, the city’s police department received a state grant exceeding $60,000 designated for pedestrian safety education. Areas such as 34th Street North and South, Fourth Street North and South, and 16th Street South were identified as critical zones requiring focused safety efforts.
Cyclists in the area have expressed apprehension about certain streets. One local cyclist noted, “Forty-ninth street is kind of narrow for as much traffic as in there now,” highlighting specific locations that require attention to ensure cyclist safety.
The recently secured $3.6 million will be allocated towards implementing a range of safety improvements. The city plans to enhance lighting, develop pedestrian crosswalks, extend curbs, and establish reduced speed zones, all of which are intended to address the daily hazards faced by both pedestrians and drivers.
Mayor Ken Welch emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “This grant will fund efforts that will improve our residents’ quality of life by addressing road safety hazards that pedestrians and drivers face on a daily basis.”
As St. Petersburg continues to grow, the funds from the federal grant will play a crucial role in ensuring the city’s roads are safer for everyone. By focusing on infrastructure improvements and educational initiatives, the city aims to protect its pedestrians and cyclists effectively.
Source: Fox13news
