St Louis prioritizes safety and multimodal connectivity in new transportation master plan

Safety, connectivity, and maintenance emerged as the top three priorities during the St. Louis Public Infrastructure & Utilities Committee meeting on January 29, 2025. The committee emphasized the need for a comprehensive Transportation Master Plan (TMP) that prioritizes the safety of all transportation users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

The meeting highlighted a community survey revealing that 80% of respondents believe the mobility needs of children are currently unmet in St. Louis. This statistic underscores the urgency of designing safer spaces for vulnerable road users. Additionally, over half of the participants reported having been involved in a traffic crash, with 21% knowing someone who suffered a life-altering injury or fatality due to such incidents. These alarming figures have prompted a strong call for improved safety measures.

A significant finding from the survey indicated that 90% of respondents would accept slower travel speeds if it meant reducing reckless driving. This sentiment aligns with the committee's focus on creating a safer transportation environment. The committee also discussed the importance of enhancing multimodal connections across neighborhoods to ensure equitable access to transportation.

The meeting introduced the draft Safety Action Plan, which aims to build on the East West Gateway's Regional Safety Action Plan. This local initiative will focus on identifying safety issues, analyzing crash data, and proposing targeted improvements for high-risk areas. The committee is committed to a data-driven approach, reviewing crash reports and assessing proposed infrastructure enhancements.

Furthermore, the committee unveiled a new Street Design Framework that aims to prioritize the needs of all road users, moving away from a vehicle-centric design. This framework will include a vision, map, and tools to guide the design of streets that accommodate various modes of transportation while ensuring safety and comfort for all users.

Looking ahead, the committee plans to submit a draft of the Safety Action Plan in February, with community engagement activities scheduled for April and May. The final planning document is expected to be completed by June, with adoption anticipated in August. This proactive approach signals a commitment to improving transportation safety and infrastructure in St. Louis, addressing the pressing concerns raised by residents.