Portsmouth Council adopts Vision Zero policy for road safety initiatives

The Portsmouth Town Council convened on January 27, 2025, to discuss various community initiatives, including road safety measures and community development block grants. The meeting began with a presentation on draft strategies and actions from a task force focused on improving roadway safety. Council members expressed a desire for more timely information regarding the task force's initiatives, particularly concerning a recent $5 million grant awarded to RIPTA for planning purposes.

During the discussion, council member Mr. Gleason raised concerns about the lack of clarity surrounding the task force's objectives and the specifics of the grant. The task force, which includes local stakeholders such as retired town planner Gary Cosby and members from the police department, aims to address safety issues on local roadways. The presentation highlighted six key tenets of roadway safety, emphasizing shared responsibility and proactive measures.

The council also discussed the implications of the grant, clarifying that the funds are designated for planning and demonstration projects rather than direct implementation of infrastructure changes like sidewalks. This led to questions about how future sidewalk projects would be funded and executed, particularly in collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT).

In response to inquiries about the task force's composition, it was confirmed that the group was formed based on interest in roadway safety, with no political affiliations influencing the selection process. The council also addressed the potential inclusion of roundabouts in future plans, acknowledging the mixed feelings within the community regarding this traffic solution.

The meeting concluded with a resolution adopting a Vision Zero policy aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The resolution passed unanimously, reflecting the council's commitment to enhancing road safety in Portsmouth. The council plans to continue refining the task force's recommendations and will present further updates in the coming months.