Little Rock Awarded Million by USDOT for Road Safety Improvements
Safety is about to receive a significant boost on Little Rock roads, thanks to a million allocation from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funds are part of the city’s “Little Rock Safe Streets for All” initiative aimed at reducing pedestrian fatalities and enhancing overall road safety.
Leveraging this grant, the initiative will introduce various safety measures such as dedicated bike lanes, roundabouts, crosswalk enhancements, and more. The primary focus is on high-injury corridors like University Avenue, John Barrow Road, and the intersection of Woodrow and 12th streets, identified as areas where individuals have tragically lost their lives or been severely injured in vehicle-related accidents.
- A key area of concern is pedestrian safety, which accounted for 31% of traffic fatalities in Little Rock between 2017 and 2021. Improvements in this area are crucial in addressing this alarming statistic.
- Little Rock residents are keenly aware of the dangers present on local roads. For instance, Jerome Butler, a resident, appealed for vigilance when crossing at Woodrow and 12th streets, pointing out the high risk of being hit if not careful.
In addition to Little Rock, eight other Arkansas cities and counties will receive funding for various safety projects through the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All program. The U.S. Department of Transportation has committed to improving road safety nationwide, with a focus on reducing fatalities and promoting safer road practices.
