The City of Richmond is proactively committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone who travels within its boundaries. The Travel Safe Richmond project encompasses two key initiatives designed to create a safer and more equitable transportation system for all: the Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP) and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan (BPAP). These plans represent significant steps towards making Richmond a safer place to travel, whether you are driving, walking, or cycling.
Local Roadway Safety Plan: Prioritizing Safe Streets
The Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP) is a comprehensive strategy focused on improving traffic safety throughout Richmond. Recognizing that traffic safety is crucial for the health and quality of life of residents and visitors, the LRSP aims to identify and address key safety concerns. This plan is dedicated to reducing fatal and serious injury collisions, ensuring that safety investments are directed to the neighborhoods with the greatest need. Furthermore, the LRSP champions safe travel for pedestrians and cyclists, especially in high-traffic areas such as school zones. By promoting safer driving behaviors through roadway design and community outreach, and preparing for future challenges with climate-resilient infrastructure, Richmond is making strides in roadway safety. The Richmond City Council officially approved the Local Roadway Safety Plan on July 19, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the city’s commitment to travel safe initiatives.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan: Creating a Safer Network for Walking and Biking
Complementing the LRSP, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan (BPAP) focuses specifically on enhancing conditions for those who walk and bike in Richmond. Serving as a five-year blueprint, the BPAP integrates recommendations from the LRSP and other city planning efforts to deliver tangible improvements to pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. The core objective of the BPAP is to make it safer, easier, and more convenient for people to walk, bike, use mobility devices, and access public transit throughout Richmond. Key goals include developing a connected bicycle and pedestrian network that builds upon existing infrastructure while addressing critical gaps, identifying near-term infrastructure projects (within 1-3 years) that prioritize safety and comfort, and establishing funding and implementation strategies for these projects. The BPAP also sets guidelines for the development of bicycle facilities and off-street paths, ensuring a cohesive and safe network for non-motorized travel. Following a study session on October 25, 2022, the Richmond City Council adopted the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan on February 7, 2023, further solidifying the city’s dedication to helping everyone travel safe.
Through the implementation of both the Local Roadway Safety Plan and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan, Richmond is taking decisive action to create a transportation system that prioritizes safety for all users. These initiatives demonstrate the city’s commitment to fostering a community where everyone can travel safe and enjoy a higher quality of life.
