The Bend MPO Policy Board meeting on June 20, 2025, highlighted critical discussions surrounding traffic safety and the need for improved reporting mechanisms for incidents involving pedestrians. A member of the board shared a personal account of a near-miss incident involving a child struck by a vehicle, emphasizing the importance of addressing such occurrences in policy discussions.

The board member expressed concern that many incidents go unreported, which hampers the community's understanding of traffic safety issues. They argued for the incorporation of these incidents into policy conversations, particularly regarding appropriate speed limits in residential areas and the design of parking lots. The member suggested that a focus on safer transit options could also be beneficial.

A significant point raised was the lack of a comprehensive safety dashboard locally, with comparisons made to Portland's inadequate system. The board member noted that the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) previously maintained a fatality counter that is no longer functional, indicating a regression in safety tracking. They called for a more formalized approach to tracking and reviewing traffic fatalities and incidents, advocating for a system that goes beyond informal records.

The discussion concluded with an invitation for other board members to share their thoughts on implementing a fatality review process, highlighting the urgency of addressing traffic safety in the community. The meeting underscored the need for better data and proactive measures to enhance pedestrian safety and overall traffic management in Bend.