Kenai Peninsula Borough launches initiative to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries

The Kenai Peninsula Borough's Policies and Procedures Committee convened on July 8, 2025, to discuss critical strategies aimed at reducing fatal and serious injuries on local roadways. The meeting highlighted a new initiative that seeks to enhance road safety across the borough by implementing proven countermeasures at identified high-risk locations.

The initiative, which began with interest from various municipalities including Soldotna and Seldovia, aims to address the alarming rates of "killed or serious injuries" (KSIs) on roads, regardless of ownership. The program encourages collaboration among local governments and the Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT) to prioritize safety measures across all transportation networks.

Key components of the plan include the introduction of safety features such as rumble strips, improved road markings, and enhanced lighting. While the program does not mandate specific actions from municipalities, it provides guidance and potential funding through federal highway dollars to support local efforts in implementing these safety measures.

The committee acknowledged the challenges of coordinating across multiple jurisdictions but expressed optimism about the collaborative approach. The discussion emphasized the importance of timely responses to accidents and the need for better post-crash care, which is also included in the safety plan.

Additionally, the committee noted the significance of addressing pedestrian and bicycle safety, particularly in urban areas where speed limits are lower. The plan aims to create safer environments for all road users, including those on foot or on bicycles.

As the borough moves forward, the Planning Department will continue to work on integrating safety considerations into future road projects, including the development of frontage and backage roads to reduce conflicts at high-speed intersections. The committee's commitment to ongoing engagement and collaboration was underscored, with plans for future meetings to assess progress and adapt strategies as necessary.

Overall, the meeting underscored a proactive approach to road safety in the Kenai Peninsula Borough, with a focus on reducing serious injuries and fatalities through informed planning and community involvement.