Pedestrian Master Plan Aims to Decrease Fatalities

By Wendy Osher

Pedestrian signage in Wailuku, Maui. Photo by Wendy Osher.

The state has released its Statewide Pedestrian Master Plan, a document aimed at decreasing pedestrian injuries and fatalities statewide.

Pedestrian fatalities have declined each year since 2003, until last year when pedestrian fatalities rose to 27 deaths, according to data released by the state earlier this month.

The plan identifies the most critical needs of the state’s highway system infrastructure, including safety improvements or repairs, and provides guidance for the future.

“Pedestrian safety continues to be a top priority for the DOT and our straightforward goal is to decrease the number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities statewide,” said Glenn Okimoto, DOT Director.

“The draft Statewide Pedestrian Master Plan was developed through a community-based process, which continues to allow the public the opportunity to help shape this important document to make their communities safer for the future,” said Okimoto.

The Plan is designed to provide infrastructure and pedestrian safety guidance for the state.  It includes public education and law enforcement strategies to maximize overall effectiveness.  The Plan also prioritizes projects for implementation and provides guidance on the most effective use of federal, state and local resources.

*** Supporting information courtesy State of Hawai’i Department of Transportation.