Aurora's Engineering Team Implements Safety Action Plan to Reduce Traffic Fatalities

Aurora City officials are taking significant steps to enhance roadway safety following a recent Transportation, Airports & Public Works Policy Committee meeting. The committee discussed various engineering and enforcement strategies aimed at reducing traffic accidents and improving safety for all road users.

One of the key initiatives highlighted was the ongoing development of a comprehensive Safety Action Plan in partnership with Adams County. This project, which is grant-funded, aims to analyze crash patterns throughout the city and implement proven safety countermeasures. Among these measures are the installation of roundabouts, which have been shown to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes by up to 82%. The city has already seen success with this approach, having installed several roundabouts to improve safety.

Additionally, the committee is excited about the upcoming launch of a safety dashboard that will allow city staff to monitor and report on safety metrics more effectively. This tool is expected to enhance communication with residents and city officials regarding ongoing safety projects and their impacts.

The city’s Traffic Calming Program, established in 2019, continues to play a vital role in reducing speeds on local roads. This program has funded various projects, including mini roundabouts and speed cushions, aimed at improving pedestrian crossings and overall safety in neighborhoods.

In terms of enforcement, the Aurora Police Department reported a significant increase in traffic stops and citations, with nearly 3,200 traffic tickets issued in just two months. Despite these efforts, officials noted that enforcement alone does not necessarily correlate with a decrease in fatal crashes, highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach that includes education and community engagement.

The committee also discussed the introduction of automated speed enforcement devices, set to launch later this year. These devices will target speeding in residential and school zones, aiming to deter reckless driving behavior.

Looking ahead, city officials emphasized the importance of community involvement in safety initiatives. They plan to engage with residents through meetings and outreach programs, particularly focusing on educating younger drivers about traffic safety.

As Aurora continues to grow, the city remains committed to implementing innovative solutions and fostering a culture of safety on its roadways. The collaborative efforts between engineering, enforcement, and education are expected to lead to significant improvements in traffic safety for all residents.