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An examination of crash records by NBC 5 Investigates indicates that several of Fort Worth’s most perilous streets for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists remain unchanged from a safety study conducted four years ago. Despite efforts to enhance safety through Fort Worth’s Vision Zero initiative, concerns persist regarding the lack of action to address hazardous locations identified years ago.
In the far northeast area of Fort Worth, frustrations mount among residents as incidents like a car crashing through a playground fence underscore the urgent need for measures to reduce speeding along Park Vista Boulevard. Chad Pack, President of the Woodland Springs HOA, expressed residents’ disappointment, highlighting their pleas for safety enhancements such as crosswalks, stop signs, and traffic lights. However, with months passing without tangible progress, doubts arise regarding the city’s commitment to the Vision Zero program.
Martina Worley, a Fort Worth resident and Woodland Springs HOA member, echoed Pack’s sentiments, emphasizing the disconnect between the city’s stated goal of zero fatalities and the lack of proactive measures to achieve it. Concerns about speeding on Park Vista were initially flagged in a city safety study four years ago, yet residents feel their appeals for action have been disregarded.
Chelsea St. Louis from the Fort Worth Transportation Department acknowledged residents’ concerns and cited ongoing efforts to address safety issues on Park Vista, including improvements at pedestrian crossings. Recent restriping efforts aimed to narrow traffic lanes and reduce speeds along the boulevard, with additional enhancements made at intersections to enhance pedestrian safety.
In February 2024, the city announced plans for a new Vision Zero action plan to tackle speeding concerns, aligning with discussions dating back to 2019 when the City Council endorsed Vision Zero. Kelly Porter, Assistant Transportation Director for the city, outlined the next steps, including the mapping of a “High Injury Network” to identify streets with the highest number of serious crashes.
However, NBC 5 Investigates’ analysis of crash data revealed that streets identified as dangerous four years ago remain among the most hazardous in 2024. McCart Avenue, for instance, witnessed a significant number of crashes resulting in fatalities, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of Vision Zero initiatives over the past five years.
Despite challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, Fort Worth officials remain committed to safety improvements. Martin Phillips, Assistant Transportation Director, highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance safety at intersections like McCart Avenue and Altamesa Boulevard, with projects aimed at reducing accidents and injuries.
Fort Worth’s approach involves a comprehensive strategy, with plans underway to modernize entire corridors like McCart Avenue. While progress may be gradual, the city is exploring interim solutions such as improved lighting and sidewalks to enhance safety.
Efforts to address safety concerns extend to streets like East Berry Street, where fatal pedestrian incidents have raised alarms. Plans to expedite improvements along East Berry reflect the city’s commitment to prioritizing safety.
Despite ongoing efforts, challenges remain in implementing safety measures recommended in previous studies. Ann Zadeh, a former Fort Worth City Council member, advocates for swift action on low-cost, high-impact solutions to improve pedestrian safety citywide.
The city’s initiative to install traffic-calming measures and facilitate community requests for safety enhancements underscores its commitment to addressing residents’ concerns. However, residents like Chad Pack emphasize the urgent need for tangible solutions to ensure safety in their neighborhoods, urging city officials to expedite the process from studies to action.
In conclusion, while Fort Worth continues its efforts to enhance road safety through Vision Zero, the persistent challenges highlighted by TxDOT crash data underscore the importance of sustained action to protect all road users in the city.