There were numerous panels at Vision Zero Philadelphia, including one about using crash data.
The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia teamed with Thomas Jefferson University and presenting sponsor AAA for the first-ever Vision Zero Conference in Philadelphia on Thursday.
The event was a huge success; about 250 people were in attendance to listen to speakers from all over North America about the politics, health and safety of a Vision Zero Policy. These photos were taken by Zach Mentzer and Randy LoBasso. If you have any you’d like us to share, tweet them to us at @bcgp. Also check out our photos and videos from the day on our Instagram account.
One panel featured leaders in Philadelphia Streets, Police, and MOTU talking Vision Zero
Vision Zero is based on the concept that road crashes are not accidents, but are preventable events. A Vision Zero Policy seeks to reduce all traffic deaths in a given area to zero. The Bicycle Coalition and its partners believe Philadelphia can make this happen. But it’s going to take a joint-effort between city departments, health experts, activists, and transportation advocates working together.
Each year, there are 11,000 crashes in Philadelphia, nearly 100 deaths, and thousands of injuries. Pedestrians and cyclists are our most vulnerable road users and lack real protection against thousand-plus-pound vehicles. This was Philadelphia’s first conference based on the concept that we can work together to end these deaths and injuries.
Mayor-Elect Jim Keneny pledges support to a Vision Zero policy during his upcoming administration.
Oh, and hey, our hashtag, #VisionZeroPHL was trending all day — so thanks to all who tweeted from the conference!
53% of people want to bike but don’t feel comfortable. Separated bike lanes are about reaching that population. #VisionZeroPHL @tooledesign
— Bike Coalition Phila (@bcgp) December 3, 2015
“@bcgp: .@JimFKenney – “This is what young folks want in terms of shared space.” #VisionZeroPHL ” true pic.twitter.com/yowqmNVvZ0
— Dena Driscoll (@bikemamadelphia) December 3, 2015
Thx to @bcgp for the opportunity to speak today…so much work to do! #VisionZeroPHL #equity pic.twitter.com/voWYuwowhJ
— Mister Benjamin (@rkbtwo) December 3, 2015
All panels included a question-and-answer period for audience members.
National experts in safety design, engineering, education and enforcement from both the public and private sectors shared their expertise and experience to help lay the groundwork for a goal and action plan that is tailored to Philadelphia and employs best practices.
The night ended with a Happy Hour at Bru on Chestnut Street.