Garrett County has initiated a Local Highway Safety Plan aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries on its roadways, with a target of achieving zero deaths by 2040. The plan, developed with a grant from Maryland's Office of Highway Safety, is a collaborative effort that also includes Allegheny County, marking a significant step as Maryland currently lacks local highway safety plans.

Sierra Whitefield, the senior planner overseeing the initiative, emphasized the importance of addressing behavioral factors contributing to accidents, such as speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving. Over the past five years, Garrett County recorded 2,457 crashes, resulting in 30 fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.

The plan identifies high-injury networks and contributing factors through data analysis and community engagement. Key stakeholders, including local health departments, law enforcement, and the Board of Education, have been involved in the planning process. The data revealed that while Garrett County's crash statistics are lower than those of Maryland and Allegheny County, the loss of seven lives annually is deemed unacceptable.

To combat these issues, the plan outlines four emphasis areas, including reducing roadway departure collisions and addressing unique safety challenges posed by the county's mountainous terrain. Proposed measures include conducting roadway audits, implementing low-cost countermeasures like speed awareness signs and rumble strips, and developing a pedestrian safety plan for high-traffic areas.

Additionally, the plan seeks to address wildlife-related accidents, particularly those involving deer, through discussions with the Department of Natural Resources and local farmers about potential wildlife crossings.

The ongoing community engagement efforts aim to gather feedback and ensure the plan effectively addresses the needs of Garrett County residents, with regular updates based on new statistics and implemented changes.