Vision Zero: Where It Went Wrong

Los Angeles‘ Vision Zero Initiative Falls Short as Traffic Fatalities Rise

By Investigative Journalist

June 7,2024

An audit reveals Los Angeles’ aspiring Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic deaths by 2025 has failed,wiht fatalities increasing due to departmental disorganization,waning political will,and an unbalanced approach. What went wrong, and what can be done to save lives on LA streets?

Vision Zero: A Promise Unfulfilled

Los Angeles embarked on a bold mission in 2015: Vision Zero.Inspired by Sweden’s successful model, the core principle was that no loss of life on city streets is acceptable. Then-Mayor Eric Garcetti established specific targets to drastically reduce, and ultimately eliminate, traffic fatalities within a decade, targeting zero deaths by 2025.

However,the reality on the ground paints a grim picture. Instead of decreasing, traffic fatalities have surged since the program’s inception. Preliminary LAPD data indicates that a staggering 303 individuals lost their lives in traffic incidents in Los Angeles in 2024, according to an LAist review of the figures.

Despite this alarming trend, the Department of Transportation remains committed to the cause.A spokesperson stated, “Eliminating traffic deaths is an ambitious goal but remains the correct one. LADOT will continue to pursue and promote policy changes along with the most effective engineering design principles and continue to invest in proven treatments that make our streets safer.”

the Audit: A Deep Dive into Failure

in 2022,the L.A. City Council commissioned a thorough audit of Vision Zero’s first seven years. the City Administrative Officer’s office allocated $500,000 to an independent contractor to conduct this evaluation. the findings were stark.

The audit, released alongside a report from the City Administrative Officer and Department of Transportation, pinpointed critical shortcomings. These included a lack of cohesion between city departments, diminishing political backing, and an overemphasis on infrastructure projects at the expense of public education and consistent monitoring. The report urged the L.A. City Council to “relaunch the Vision Zero Program with a more intentional and collaborative approach.”

One significant issue was the breakdown of the Vision Zero Steering Committee.This committee, comprised of representatives from various city departments, was intended to coordinate traffic safety initiatives.However, the audit revealed that the committee ceased regular meetings by mid-2018, resulting in the loss of a vital “forum to collaborate on Vision Zero goals,” according to the audit.

Furthermore,the Department of Transportation’s action plan,which outlines coordinated projects across city agencies,was last updated in 2018. The audit identified 56 “actions and strategies” from that plan slated for completion by the end of 2020. Shockingly, half of these projects remained unfinished as of the end of 2023.

The audit also highlighted a decline in enthusiasm for Vision Zero at City Hall, citing factors such as the pandemic, interpersonal conflicts, a lack of universal commitment, disagreements over program governance, and scaling challenges.Without strong political support and clear dialogue from council members, the effectiveness of Vision Zero is significantly compromised.

“As a governing body, this city does not treat traffic violence as the public health crisis that it has become.”

Damian Kevitt, the executive director of Streets Are For Everyone

Another contributing factor is the reduction in traffic enforcement due to LAPD staffing shortages and concerns about over-policing. This has created a situation where risky driving behaviors go unchecked, further endangering pedestrians and cyclists.

Traffic Fatalities in L.A.: A Troubling Trend

In 2015, when Vision Zero was launched, approximately 240 people died in traffic collisions in Los Angeles, according to state data. since then,that number has not dipped below 280 in any year and climbed to 303 by 2024,based on an laist review of LAPD data.This trajectory stands in stark contrast to the program’s stated goal.

Nationally, progress in reducing traffic fatalities has stagnated over the past decade. The situation worsened during the pandemic,likely due to an increase in reckless driving behaviors,as noted by UC Berkeley transportation safety researcher Matthew Raifman.

raifman’s research indicates that Los Angeles has experienced a faster growth in traffic fatalities compared to the national average.He also points out that L.A. has a disproportionately high number of pedestrian and cyclist fatalities compared to the other four most populous U.S. cities.

“That’s deeply problematic as [walking and biking] are an critically important mode of transportation and something that we’re trying to incentivize in manny American cities.”

matthew Raifman, UC Berkeley transportation safety researcher.

This is particularly concerning given the emphasis on promoting sustainable transportation options in urban areas across the United States. Making streets safe for pedestrians and cyclists is crucial for encouraging these modes of transportation and reducing reliance on cars.

U.S. City	2024 Traffic Fatalities (preliminary)	Vision Zero Status
Los Angeles	303	Failing
New York City	*data unavailable*	Ongoing
Chicago	*Data unavailable*	Ongoing
Houston	*Data Unavailable*	no Formal plan
Phoenix	*Data Unavailable*	Ongoing

*Data for other cities may vary in availability and reporting standards.*

Looking Ahead: Potential Solutions and Recent Developments

Despite the setbacks, there are reasons for cautious optimism. Since the audit’s completion in late 2023,the city’s department of Transportation has identified a new network of streets with a high incidence of fatal and serious injury collisions.This data-driven approach will help prioritize interventions to improve safety.

Furthermore, the city is on track to install automated speed cameras on perilous streets by mid-2025, thanks to state legislation passed in 2023. The audit highlighted the success of similar camera programs in reducing traffic fatalities in other cities, offering a proven strategy for Los Angeles.

the Department of Transportation also plans to “pursue additional changes in legislation” to strengthen enforcement and accountability for risky driving behaviors, including running red lights, driving under the influence, distracted driving, and speeding. Stronger laws and stricter enforcement are essential for deterring dangerous behavior and creating a culture of safety on the roads.

In a significant move at the end of 2024, Mayor Karen Bass directed the city to develop L.A.’s first Capital Betterment Plan. This long-term planning document, used by most other major U.S. cities, will prioritize and allocate funding for infrastructure projects. This initiative has the potential to address the coordination and planning challenges identified in the audit.

One potential obstacle will be funding. Major infrastructure projects require significant capital investment, and Los Angeles will need to identify sustainable sources of funding to implement the Capital Improvement Plan effectively. This may involve a combination of local,state,and federal funding sources.

Another potential challenge is public acceptance. Some residents may resist changes to street design or traffic patterns, even if those changes are intended to improve safety. It is important for the city to engage with the public and address their concerns to build support for Vision Zero initiatives.

Though, the plan represents a significant step forward in addressing the systemic issues that have hampered Vision Zero’s progress.By prioritizing infrastructure investments and improving coordination between city departments, Los Angeles can create a safer transportation system for all its residents.

Cyclists ride across the sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles in 2022.

(

Trevor Stamp

/

For LAist

)

the Road Ahead

Los Angeles faces a critical juncture in its efforts to eliminate traffic deaths. The vision Zero initiative,while well-intentioned,has fallen far short of its goals. Though, the audit’s findings provide a roadmap for improvement. By addressing the issues of departmental disorganization, waning political support, and an unbalanced approach, Los Angeles can get back on track.

The key will be a renewed commitment to collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and a comprehensive approach that includes infrastructure improvements, public education, and effective enforcement. With strong leadership and the support of the community, Los Angeles can still achieve its vision Zero goal and create a safer, more livable city for all.

Los Angeles Vision Zero Initiative: An Interview with Transportation Expert Dr. Evelyn reed

Introduction

Welcome, readers, to Archyde. Today, we’re diving deep into the troubling state of Los Angeles’ Vision Zero initiative. Traffic fatalities are on the rise, and the city’s enterprising goal to eliminate traffic deaths by 2025 seems increasingly out of reach. To help us dissect what went wrong and what the future holds, we have Dr. Evelyn Reed, a leading transport safety researcher and Professor at USC’s Sol Price School of Public Policy.

Dr. Reed, welcome to Archyde.

Understanding the Failure of Vision Zero in Los Angeles

Archyde: Dr. Reed, the recent audit paints a bleak picture. What, in your expert opinion, were the critical factors contributing to the failure of Vision Zero to make notable progress in reducing traffic fatalities?

Dr. Reed: Thank you for having me. The audit revealed several key issues. First and foremost, the lack of cohesive coordination between city departments was a major stumbling block. The Vision Zero Steering Committee, which was meant to be the central coordinating body, essentially dissolved. Furthermore, the action plan wasn’t updated, and a lack of clear political support and funding played a major role.

Archyde: The audit specifically mentions a decline in political will. How crucial is strong political backing for a program like Vision Zero?

dr. Reed: Absolutely essential. Vision Zero requires sustained commitment and resources. When political support wanes, funding gets squeezed, projects get delayed, and the overall momentum is lost. Clear messaging from city leaders about the importance of traffic safety is also vital to change public perception and encourage a culture of safety.

Addressing the Shortcomings and Potential Solutions

archyde: The article highlights the crucial role of infrastructure improvements. What specific infrastructural changes shoudl Los Angeles prioritize in order to improve Vision Zero?

Dr. Reed: Investing in proven safety measures is key. This includes protected bike lanes, pedestrian safety islands, leading pedestrian intervals at intersections to give them a head start, and better street lighting. The imminent deployment of automated speed cameras will be a plus. These measures are proven methods to reduce accidents.

Archyde: The article touches on the challenges of enforcement. How significant is the reduction in traffic enforcement due to staffing shortages and is this a critical factor in the increase in traffic fatalities?

Dr. Reed: Absolutely. Enforcement is two-pronged: it dissuades risky driving behaviors and enforces traffic laws. Due to LAPD staffing shortages, ther’s a reduction in enforcement, which, in turn, emboldens poor driving habits. The upcoming automated speed cameras will contribute; also, more traffic enforcement is required.

Archyde: Mayor Bass has directed the city to develop a Capital Improvement Plan. How could this benefit Vision Zero?

Dr. Reed: A Capital Improvement Plan and new legislation are steps in the right direction. It allows the City to plan, budget and prioritize projects with long-term funding. This allows the city to coordinate and ensure long-term success.

the Path Forward and Future challenges

Archyde: Looking ahead,what are the biggest hurdles Los Angeles faces in revitalizing Vision zero?

Dr. Reed: Securing consistent funding, and public resistance may be major obstacles. Safety improvements will be expensive, and the city must address any concerns regarding changes to street design or traffic patterns. In addition, los Angeles needs to prioritize data-driven strategies. Focus on the areas with the highest collision rates. The next step is to maintain commitment, dialog, and collaboration.

Archyde: The article showed the City is moving forward with speed cameras, infrastructure, and funding efforts. Do you think los Angeles can still achieve its stated goal of zero traffic fatalities?

Dr. Reed: while the 2025 target is likely unattainable given the current trajectory, the goal remains valid and achievable in the long term. It will need continued investment, unwavering political commitment, and a cultural shift toward prioritizing safety over convenience.

Archyde: Data shows that LA is having trouble tackling the issue of pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. Is there specific advice you can mention?

Dr.Reed: Absolutely. We have to prioritize redesigning intersections with pedestrian crossings or bicycle lanes. enforcing laws to protect cyclists is also significant. Encouraging education programs can really inform drivers to be more alert.

Archyde: Dr. Reed,thank you for your insightful analysis. Our readers can continue to follow the Vision Zero initiative developments. Our commitment to safer streets in Los Angeles requires our attention.

Concluding Thoughts

Archyde: What recommendations do you have for the public? Are there ways concerned citizens can help?

Dr.Reed: The public can certainly play a huge role. they must advocate their city’s improvements. report risky driving behaviors.By engaging with the city’s Vision Zero efforts, the public can ensure a safer surroundings for every individual.

Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Reed, for your time and expertise.

What specific changes, in the infrastructure or policy, do you want to see implemented? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your input is essential!