Pedestrians Dying at Disproportionate Rates
In America’s Poorer Neighborhoods
A recent article published by Governing magazine states that poorer areas have approximately double the fatality rates of wealthier communities.
Governing analyzed accident location coordinates for the more than 22,000 pedestrians killed nationwide between 2008 and 2012. The data call attention to the aspects of low-income neighborhoods that put residents at greater risk. It highlights the historical routes of urban planning, which created a disconnect between poorer and wealthier communities in the construction of highways and major arterial roadways. Consequently, heavily trafficked arterial roadways with higher speed limits may run right through these poorer neighborhoods.
The article also references pedestrian treatments and Vision Zero programs with the goal of eliminating pedestrian deaths, by placing the safety burden on system design rather than individuals. WALKSacramento will begin the implementation of a Vision Zero initiative in the “Building Healthy Communities” area in South Sacramento beginning Fall 2014, funded by The California Endowment.