News Summary
The University of Oklahoma is developing a Safe Streets for All action plan aimed at improving road safety in Shawnee, Oklahoma. The initiative, funded by a U.S. Department of Transportation grant, emphasizes community engagement and data integration to identify key safety improvements. A draft safety action plan is expected by February 2026, reflecting the needs of residents and aligning with broader regional safety initiatives. This effort contributes to the Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries.
Shawnee, Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma (OU) is progressing on a Safe Streets for All (SS4A) action plan, with a draft expected by February 2026. This initiative aims to enhance road safety in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and is funded by a U.S. Department of Transportation grant.
Community Engagement and Data Collection
In 2025, OU’s transportation planning class initiated the project, employing various community engagement methods, including a dedicated website, surveys, and participation in five local events: Cops and Kids, Petalpalooza, the fall festival, a mummy-day museum event, and the Shawnee Rotary Club. These efforts resulted in 96 completed surveys and the identification of 260 locations by respondents. The collected data will be integrated with crash statistics and police speed/incident records to prioritize safety improvements.
Upcoming Draft Plan
The draft safety action plan is slated for delivery to city staff by February 2026. It will outline recommended improvements and identify areas where federal implementation funding can be most effectively utilized. Commissioners have encouraged broader community participation to ensure the plan reflects the needs and priorities of Shawnee residents.
Background on Safe Streets for All
The SS4A program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides funding to support regional, local, and tribal initiatives aimed at preventing roadway deaths and serious injuries. The program emphasizes a Safe System Approach, focusing on enhancing safety, promoting inclusivity, and raising awareness among all road users. As of March 2024, over $3 billion remains available for future funding rounds, underscoring the program’s commitment to improving road safety nationwide.
Related Initiatives in Oklahoma
Shawnee’s efforts align with broader regional initiatives. For instance, the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) secured a $192,000 grant in 2022 through the SS4A program to develop a Regional Safety Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce vehicular crashes, injuries, and fatalities, contributing to the Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic-related deaths.
Additionally, the City of Oklahoma City developed a Vision Zero Plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries on public roadways. Approved by the City Council on February 25, 2025, the plan includes an analysis of the city’s roadways and recommends strategies to improve safety.
Conclusion
The University of Oklahoma’s Safe Streets for All action plan represents a significant step toward enhancing road safety in Shawnee. Through comprehensive community engagement and data-driven strategies, the initiative aims to create safer, more equitable roadways for all residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) program?
The SS4A program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides funding to support regional, local, and tribal initiatives aimed at preventing roadway deaths and serious injuries. The program emphasizes a Safe System Approach, focusing on enhancing safety, promoting inclusivity, and raising awareness among all road users. As of March 2024, over $3 billion remains available for future funding rounds, underscoring the program’s commitment to improving road safety nationwide.
What is the Vision Zero Plan?
The Vision Zero Plan is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. First implemented in Sweden in the 1990s, Vision Zero has proved successful across Europe and is now gaining momentum in major American cities.
How can Shawnee residents participate in the Safe Streets for All initiative?
Shawnee residents can participate by visiting the project’s website, completing surveys, and attending community events. Their input is crucial in shaping the safety action plan to reflect the community’s needs and priorities.
When is the draft safety action plan expected?
The draft safety action plan is expected to be delivered to city staff by February 2026. It will outline recommended improvements and identify areas where federal implementation funding can be most effectively utilized.
What other safety initiatives are underway in Oklahoma?
In addition to Shawnee’s efforts, the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) secured a $192,000 grant in 2022 through the SS4A program to develop a Regional Safety Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce vehicular crashes, injuries, and fatalities, contributing to the Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic-related deaths.
Key Features of the Safe Streets for All Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Community Engagement | Utilizing a dedicated website, surveys, and participation in local events to gather input from Shawnee residents. |
| Data Integration | Combining survey responses with crash statistics and police speed/incident records to prioritize safety improvements. |
| Draft Plan Timeline | The draft safety action plan is expected to be delivered to city staff by February 2026. |
| Federal Funding | The initiative is funded by a U.S. Department of Transportation grant, with over $3 billion remaining available for future funding rounds as of March 2024. |
| Alignment with Vision Zero | The initiative aligns with broader regional efforts, including the Vision Zero Plan approved by the City Council on February 25, 2025. |
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