Imagine a week where we all choose transportation alternatives to driving our own cars solo: walking, biking, using public transit, or ride sharing. Sure, there may be some downsides - cars are oftentimes convenient - but think about the upsides. This shift in our behavior can significantly reduce traffic congestion, lower fossil fuel exhaust emissions, and improve our air quality. A Week Without Driving can also foster empathy and understanding for those can't take advantage of the benefits of a personal car.
As the new school year kicks off, ensuring the safety of students walking, biking, or riding to school becomes an important focus. With the increase in both pedestrian, bike and vehicle traffic around schools, there are some understandable risks that come with busy school zones:
In today’s world, the allure of supersized or oversized vehicles (large SUVs and big trucks) sometimes stems from a perceived sense of safety. Yet, as we delve deeper into the data, an unexpected truth emerges: these heavy vehicles may not be as safe as we once thought — for both drivers and other road users.
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, public transit systems worldwide face unprecedented challenges with reduced ridership and changing commuter behavior. While many cities struggle with slow recovery of ridership, Los Angeles has had positive trends, showing increased year-on-year service users and overall increased usage starting to approach pre-pandemic numbers.
May is Bike Month! Numerous events, for cycling enthusiasts everywhere, mark the arrival of National Bike Month. Biking isn’t just a mode of transportation; for many it’s a lifestyle that embodies a commitment to wellness and environmental stewardship. As spring blooms around us, there’s no better time for people of all ages to embrace the joy of cycling, enjoy a ride to work or school, or simply to explore the world around them. This positive energy should help promote safer infrastructure for everyone.
As average temperatures in many US cities continue to climb and debilitating heat events become more frequent, the importance of green spaces and shade in urban environments has become increasingly evident. National Heatstroke Prevention Day, observed earlier this month on May 1st, serves as a crucial reminder of the risks posed by excessive heat, particularly in densely populated cities like Los Angeles. To help mitigate these effects, one of the rays of hope we’d like to draw attention to is urban trees and shade.
Distracted driving presents itself in various forms, but one of the most prevalent and dangerous behaviors is texting, scrolling or using cell phones (and on-board screens) while driving. As advocates for safer mobility for everyone, we believe it's crucial to raise awareness, encourage safe driving behavior on the road, and reverse this worrying and dangerous trend. The Put the Phone Away or Pay campaign aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with distracted driving and promote safer habits behind the wheel.
Like most of the US, California grapples with road safety. With ever larger cars clogging busy urban roads California seeks innovative solutions to curb traffic crashes and reduce congestion.
Among many efforts to improve the road network and our behavior, significant opportunities might be found in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to these problems. By utilizing AI's capabilities to analyze road networks, dangerous driving behavior, and other crucial factors, we might be on the brink of a revolution in road safety practices.
We are excited to announce the launch of the LA Metro Owl Service Map – a new transit map showcasing bus services that operate between 12-4 AM. This product informs commuters who depend on public transit during late night hours.
The Owl Map demonstrates Metro's commitment to continuously improve access to reliable, 24/7 public transit options. DCR collaborated with Metro's Service Planning division to conceive this newest member of the Metro transit map product suite.
Below is a glimpse into how this map was brought to life.
Between 2019 and 2022, the number of pedestrian fatalities increased nearly 20%, as reported in detail by Governors Highway Safety Association in their new Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities report. There were over 7,500 pedestrian fatalities in 2022, which is the highest number since 1981. Unless we take action to improve and implement new safety infrastructure, this devastating trend is projected to continue. This is one of the many reasons that the Safe Streets for All grant program is a big deal.
In collaboration with PedalLove we have updated our white paper about the Safe Streets for All Grant program. Developing a meaningful and robust safety plan is the first step in this program and, based on our experience, we suggest how to go about this process.
