The Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) convened on December 16, 2024, to discuss critical initiatives aimed at enhancing roadway safety and community engagement. A significant focus of the meeting was the Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on the region's roadways. The MPO is seeking to establish a commitment statement that outlines a target year for achieving this ambitious goal, with discussions leaning towards a timeline between 2040 and 2050.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the importance of public input, noting that nearly 700 comments had been collected through focus group meetings with local first responders and seasonal workforce representatives. This feedback will inform the development of a highway injury network and strategies for specific locations, as well as broader regional initiatives.

The MPO is looking to align its goals with those of other regional planning agencies, some of which have already set more aggressive targets for Vision Zero. For instance, counterparts in Merrimack Valley and Greater Lowell have committed to achieving their goals by 2030. However, the Cape Cod MPO recognizes the challenges of implementing such initiatives across its 15 towns, many of which are still in the early stages of adopting Complete Streets policies.

In addition to the Vision Zero discussions, the MPO is preparing a regional action plan that will enable towns to apply for federal implementation grants through the Safe Streets for All program. This funding opportunity is contingent upon the completion of the action plan, which is expected to be finalized in the spring of 2025.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further feedback from member towns regarding their commitment to Vision Zero and the potential for adopting related policies. The MPO aims to foster collaboration among towns to enhance roadway safety and accessibility, emphasizing that achieving these goals will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders involved. As the MPO prepares for its next meeting in January, the groundwork laid during this session will be crucial for shaping the future of transportation safety in Cape Cod.