The Complex Effects 'Vision Zero' Series
Albuquerque, NM is the most dangerous city in America to be a pedestrian. In response to that, I documented some of the overwhelming evidence that building a safer, more walkable city is beneficial in many ways - and is not that hard or expensive to do.
Vision Zero is a program that aims to reduce pedestrian and car-related fatalities to zero. You can think of it as a semi-structured roadmap to healing a city’s car-centric ways. The City of Albuquerque, like many other cities around the world, has adopted Vision Zero, but it’s taking a while for it to kick in. With a little more funding and motivation, cities like Albuquerque could reverse their unfortunate spike in pedestrian deaths, and benefit from the many economic, health, and aesthetic reasons to fully enact Vision Zero.
First, learn about the funding mechanisms cities use to construct their transportation infrastructure, and how cities should shift their spending to more sustainable, cost-effective infrastructure:
Vision Zero is a vision worth funding
Albuquerque has again been ranked first in the nation for pedestrian deaths for 2023. Beating our previous record of 49 fatalities, Albuquerque reached 56 pedestrian deaths last year - an upward trend that has no end in sight. According to the mayor, we’re already on track to hit 80 pedestrian deaths in 2024.
Second, let me show you what Vision Zero would look like:
Visualizing safer roads in Albuquerque
Visualization, I believe, is a key aspect of achieving any goal. In my track and cross country days, I was coached to visualize myself winning a race, running a certain time, or finishing a tough workout. Visualization is one of the many steps between setting goals and achieving goals. I was more prepared to execute a race with confidence and reac…
And lastly, I’ll fully sell you on Vision Zero and what it would mean for your health and your pocketbook:
Walkability and your bank account
I wonder how many of you are fully sold by now as I ramble about the benefits of walkable cities for the third post in a row. I’m sure most of my readers agree with my analysis, however, there’s a chance you still aren’t sold on the idea of diverting money away from car infrastructure and towards more complete streets.
Reader suggestions are always encouraged. I may continue adding to this series in the future, so let me know if there’s something else about Vision Zero you think I should cover.