Ohio State awarded $300K for multimodal safety plan

Initiative aims to use data-driven approaches to reduce crashes

The Ohio State University's Columbus campus has been awarded $300,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets for All (SS4A) program for its project, "Protecting Vulnerable Roadway Users: A Multimodal Safety Plan."

"We're excited to re-envision a transportation network that prioritizes safety and accessibility for everyone, whether they're walking, biking or using other modes of transportation," said Andrew Neil, assistant director of sustainability for Facilities Operations and Development (FOD). "This funding will allow us to push forward with a framework to create innovative solutions to reduce crashes and improve the overall experience on the Columbus campus."

The initiative aims to improve safety for vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists and those using micromobility options like scooters, by developing a transportation safety plan that uses data-driven approaches to reduce crashes on or near the Ohio State campus. The plan will also look for innovative technologies to promote equity in transportation.

It aligns with broader regional and city initiatives, including the City of Columbus' Vision Zero plan and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission's safety goals.

The grant comes as the result of collaborative efforts of multiple departments including FOD, Planning, Architecture and Real Estate (PARE), and Transportation and Traffic Management (TTM).

"Through this effort, we plan to analyze crash data, gather community input and evaluate safe systems approaches to our transportation infrastructure, identifying areas with the highest need and creating a safer environment for all road users," said John Shrader, field logistics coordinator for TTM.

The plan also considers sustainability goals, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by making it easier for non-motorized transportation options like biking or walking.

"Our goal is not just to reduce crashes, but also to create a transportation network that is sustainable and equitable," said Rebekah Gayley, assistant director of facility planning for PARE. "As our campus and the surrounding areas continue to grow, it's essential that we create infrastructure that meets the needs of all."

With the awarded funds, the team plans to hire consultants to develop a comprehensive transportation safety plan and identify low-cost, high-impact projects. The team hopes to start the planning process in winter 2025, with community engagement to follow. The plan aligns with Ohio State's long-term master plan, Framework 3.0.

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