Agenda Summary
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That the City of Somerville observe World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
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Official Text
WHEREAS: Since 1995 the World Day of Remembrance for Traffic Victims has honored the 1.35 million people killed and millions injured on average on the world’s roads annually and urges significant and serious change at state and local levels to prevent continuing tragedies; and
WHEREAS: In 2020, more than 60 US cities held commemorative events -- including our neighbors in Medford and Boston -- and over 75 cities will participate this year; and
WHEREAS: Somerville Alliance for Safe Streets (SASS) and the Route 16 Traffic Calming Coalition were founded by and for residents, parents, vulnerable road users, business owners, and elected officials to advocate for greater safety and equitable mobility for all; and
WHEREAS: SASS and the Route 16 Traffic Calming Coalition are committed to working alongside city staff, elected officials, and members of city’s advisory committees/councils on a range of issues, including: Vision Zero, bike safety and bike network planning, access for people with disabilities, safe school drop off and pick up, improving traffic signals and upgrading/re-engineering dangerous intersections; and
WHEREAS: SASS and the Route 16 Traffic Calming Coalition members strongly support holding a World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims observance here in Somerville; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED: That the City of Somerville observe World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims by officially declaring a day of remembrance and by holding a public event in Somerville on Sunday, November 19, 2023, to further raise community awareness and involvement, provide a space for victims, their families, and neighbors to acknowledge the social and emotional costs of traffic crashes, and -- not least -- to renew efforts to reduce them.