~ The City of Springfield has recently completed its first round of safety improvements as part of the Safer Streets SGF program. These improvements were made at the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Grand Street, utilizing innovative methods to address safety challenges. The program, which was adopted by City Council in 2024, aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries on Springfield's roadway network.

The decision to focus on the Campbell Avenue and Grand Street intersection was based on previous data that identified it as one of the most hazardous locations for both pedestrians and motorists in the city. To tackle this issue, Public Works enlisted the help of California-based consultant, Street Simplified. Using cameras and artificial intelligence (AI), they studied "critical events" or near-crashes at the intersection. This marks the first time that Public Works has utilized AI in traffic analysis, shifting from a reactive to a proactive approach to safety improvements.

According to Traffic Engineer Grady Porter, this study provided unprecedented insight into the specific factors contributing to collisions at this dangerous intersection. He also noted that due to the historic cemetery located on the southeast corner, traditional widening projects were not feasible. Therefore, innovative methods were necessary to address safety concerns.

More on TelAve News

• Colorado Scenthound Locations Partner with Humane Colorado to Give Adopted Dogs a "Clean Start"
• Endoacustica Europe Unveils iPhone 13 Pro Max Spy Phone—Pure Hardware, Zero Software Changes
• Suzanne Harp named Managing Director in Texas, USA
• $10 Million Acquisition of GXR World Sports Assets Energizes Global Launch of Sports.com Super App by Online Lottery-Sports Game Provider: Lottery.com
• Shop American Made Goods: New Online Marketplace My American Goods Curates the Best of U.S. Made

In response to the study findings, a comprehensive safety improvement project was completed at the intersection. This included restriping lanes to reduce driver confusion and protect pedestrians from left-turning vehicles, upgrading crosswalks with higher visibility markings, timing signals to reduce angle crashes and conflicts with pedestrians, and replacing a temporary median with a permanent concrete one for added safety at reduced maintenance costs.

Porter expressed his excitement about taking this important step towards achieving their Safer Streets goal and ensuring pedestrian safety in Springfield. He also emphasized their use of new technologies and collaboration with the community in creating a safer and more accessible city for everyone.

The success of this project will serve as a model for future Safer Streets SGF initiatives in Springfield. The city plans to implement further safety upgrades at other high-risk locations in the coming years.

Safer Streets SGF is part of the city's efforts to implement the nationally recognized Vision Zero safety strategy. Launched in 2023 by the Springfield Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Works, the initiative aims to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2040 and disabling injury crashes by 2050. The City Council formally adopted Springfield's Safer Streets SGF Plan and goal in August of 2024. Those interested in learning more or getting involved can visit springfieldmo.gov/saferstreets.

---

Show All News | Report Violation