Mount Juliet's Public Works presents safety action plan for roadway improvements

During the recent Planning Commission meeting in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, officials discussed a critical safety initiative aimed at improving roadway safety in the city. The meeting, held on April 17, 2025, centered around the presentation of a Safety Action Plan, which is a requirement for the city to qualify for federal implementation grants.

Matthew White, the Public Works Director, introduced the plan, which was developed with the assistance of Kimberly Horn and Associates. Funded by a grant from the Safe Streets for All program, part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, the plan aims to address fatal and serious injury crashes on Mount Juliet's roadways. The city has experienced 57 crashes over the past five years, including 10 fatalities and 47 serious injuries.

Leo Espellet from Kimberly Horn provided an overview of the plan, emphasizing its data-driven approach. The plan includes extensive community engagement, with over 630 surveys completed by residents, which helped identify areas of concern. The data revealed a significant correlation between community input and actual crash data, highlighting critical intersections and corridors that require immediate attention.

The Safety Action Plan outlines eight components, including the formation of a steering committee comprising various city departments to oversee implementation. It also emphasizes the need for transparency and public access to the plan, ensuring residents can monitor progress on safety improvements.

One of the key recommendations is the establishment of a long-term goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries on the roads, with an interim target of a 25% reduction in such incidents by 2035. This ambitious goal reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of accidents.

The next steps involve presenting the plan to the Board of Commissioners for adoption, which is expected to occur next week. Once approved, the city will be eligible to apply for implementation grants, allowing for the necessary funding to execute the proposed safety measures.

This initiative represents a significant step towards improving transportation safety in Mount Juliet, addressing community concerns, and aligning with federal safety objectives. The proactive approach taken by city officials underscores the importance of prioritizing public safety in urban planning and development.