News Summary
Greenwood County has initiated a project to enhance road safety, supported by a USDOT grant. The aim is to create safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists amid alarming traffic death statistics. The community is encouraged to participate by sharing their input via an online survey as part of the plan to achieve zero traffic deaths.
Greenwood County Takes Steps for Safer Roads with Public Input
In the heart of Greenwood County, a new initiative is gearing up to make local roads safer for everyone. The county has launched a project aimed at improving road safety near trails throughout the area, thanks to a generous grant from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) under the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) program.
What’s the Big Idea?
The primary goal of this project is to create a comprehensive plan that enhances safety for walking, biking, and driving around the county. With alarming statistics highlighting the urgent need for change, since 2017, a shocking 101 individuals have lost their lives while driving, walking, or biking in Greenwood County. The state of South Carolina is no stranger to road safety issues, holding the dubious title of having the second highest traffic death rate in the nation per 100,000 residents. Additionally, it ranks fifth in pedestrian death rates across the country, making the push for safer streets not just a local need, but a state-wide priority.
But here’s the silver lining: this project doesn’t just aim to improve safety — it aspires to achieve a jaw-dropping goal of reducing traffic deaths in Greenwood County to zero. Imagine that!
Your Voice Matters
One of the exciting aspects of this initiative is that it invites the public to weigh in. Residents of Greenwood County are encouraged to share their thoughts and suggestions through a digital survey and an online mapping tool. These are accessible on the county’s official website at www.greenwoodcounty-sc.gov/safestreets. Your input can help shape the future of the community’s roads — so don’t miss out on the chance to be heard!
A Strong Foundation for Safety
The SS4A program, founded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), funds various initiatives aimed at preventing roadway deaths and serious injuries. By supporting the USDOT National Roadway Safety Strategy, this program takes a Safe System Approach, which is all about creating a comprehensive and proactive strategy to keep everyone safe on the roads, whether they’re driving, walking, or biking.
Weather or Not
As tied to this road safety project are the environmental factors that affect our sidewalks and streets. For those planning to venture out in the coming days, expect partly cloudy skies in the morning that will transition to cloudy conditions by the afternoon, peaking at a warm 82°F. However, those evening plans might need a rain check, as scattered thunderstorms are on the horizon with a 90% chance of showers overnight. It’s a perfect time to stay indoors and think about how you can contribute to road safety while staying cozy!
A Call for Safety After a Recent Incident
In light of the ongoing efforts for road safety, a recent incident in Greenwood County raised alarm. A hit-and-run accident left a pedestrian with serious injuries late at night on Siloam Church Road near McKellar Drive. The vehicle involved is suspected to be a 2022-24 Honda Civic, which struck the pedestrian while traveling south. Witnesses believe that the vehicle may have damage to the right front headlight and the right side mirror. Incidents like this underscore the need for increased safety measures on our roads.
Let’s Make a Change!
As Greenwood County embarks on this critical project to develop safer streets, active community participation will be essential. By taking part in the online survey and sharing your thoughts, you can help build a safer, more vibrant community for everyone. Together, let’s aim for those zero traffic deaths and create a future where safety is a priority for all. Stay safe, stay engaged, and let’s pave the way for a brighter tomorrow!
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Greenwood County Officials Seek Public Input for Road Safety Project
- Index Journal: Highway Patrol Seeks Info on Hit-and-Run in Greenwood County
- WYFF4: South Carolina School Districts Changes
- Greenville Online: The Inn at Altamont on Paris Mountain Proposal Draws Protest
- Index Journal: Belton Woman Charged in Hit-and-Run in Greenwood County
- Wikipedia: Road Safety
- Google Search: Traffic Safety South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Road Safety Initiatives
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- Google News: Greenwood County Traffic News
