North Columbus News

Representatives Mike Carey and Emilia Sykes have come together to address the pressing issue of pedestrian safety by introducing bipartisan legislation. Congressman Carey emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, stating, “Our legislation will make our roadways safer for children and families by redesigning crosswalks, roundabouts, sidewalks, and other infrastructure.” Congresswoman Sykes echoed his sentiments, highlighting the importance of finding solutions to ensure people can move around communities without fear, saying, “I’m proud to work alongside Congressman Carey to co-lead the Save Our Pedestrians Act.”

The Save Our Pedestrians Act of 2024, introduced by Carey and Sykes, mandates that five percent of all funding allocated to states through the Highway Safety Improvement Program be designated for projects aimed at reducing injuries and fatalities at high-risk pedestrian crossings. This legislation aims to address the alarming statistics related to pedestrian safety in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 8,000 pedestrians have been killed by motor vehicles on American roadways since 2011, equivalent to approximately one death every 66 minutes. The Governors Highway Safety Association reports a 77% increase in pedestrian deaths since 2010, underscoring the urgency of implementing measures to enhance pedestrian safety.

The bipartisan collaboration between Carey and Sykes reflects a commitment to improving pedestrian safety not only in Ohio but across the nation. Their proposed legislation seeks to mitigate accidents and save lives in communities, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing pedestrian well-being in transportation planning and infrastructure development.