Catalyzing Street Safety in Los Angeles through a Worker-Centered Model

Project Description

The state of California and regional transportation planning agencies have committed to shifting mode share away from driving as a central strategy for reducing carbon emissions; despite these aims, cities have struggled to attract more users to transit, walking, and biking systems, and today’s users face exposure to traffic violence and other safety concerns. Would a worker-centered street safety model attract more investment in active transportation projects? Designed in partnership with community-based groups in Los Angeles, this project will provide research for a street safety worker role that is economically sustainable, produces measurable effects, and can garner diverse public and political support. Project activities include mapping LA’s street safety ecosystem of active transportation projects, defining a viable strategy for a High Road Training Partnership (HRTP) for street safety, and identifying metrics for transportation investments that can both improve safety and create jobs. The research team will synthesize findings into a report, a primer for practitioners, and a web-based resource.