Engineering

Together we will use strategies that are equitable, data-driven and collaborative as steps to achieve zero roadway deaths in the Kansas City region by 2050.   

To achieve this vision, engineering should consider the following goals when implementing the strategies below. 

• Equitable — ensure quality infrastructure is accessible to all communities and that the benefits of safety investments are fairly distributed.  
• Data-driven — use traditional and innovative data sources to quantify the expected impact of safety improvements on crash likelihood and severity as well as on quality-of-life improvements for all users. Collect data on the effectiveness of safety projects to inform future applications.   
• Collaborative — using a safe systems approach, identify systemic approaches to reduce vulnerabilities for each layer of context including infrastructure, policy, enforcement, education, vehicles, and environment. Include thoughtful and accessible engagement opportunities for community members to share their safety concerns and priorities for improvement.  

These strategies might require fewer resources, less coordination among stakeholders or lower time constraints.

Incorporate formal safety considerations and review processes into planning activities so that speeds, conflict points, accommodations for vulnerable users, accessibility, and connectivity are all considered from the first stages of development. 

Implement traffic calming, and “self-enforcing road” speed management strategies in high activity areas such as central business districts, school zones, shopping areas, critical services, parks, residential areas, etc. 

Self-Enforcing Roadways 

These strategies might require some resources, coordination among some stakeholders or take longer to achieve.

Set consistent lower speed limits across jurisdictions, especially in neighborhoods and activity centers. Posted Speed Limit Setting Procedure and Tool

Install active transportation infrastructures such as sidewalks, crossings, protects/off-street bicycle facilities, lighting, etc., especially in areas with high percentages of low-income residents, people of color, and low car ownership.

Self-Enforcing Roadways

Develop policies that design, build, and maintain complete streets that are safe and convenient for all travelers, including people with disabilities, pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, transit riders, micro-mobility, and freight.

Self-Enforcing Roadways

These strategies might require more resources, coordination among several stakeholders or longer time constraints.

Create safe conflict points, especially safe-systems-based intersections by reducing speed, improving visibility, and creating protections for non-motorized road users.