FAQ

What is Vision Zero?

A:

Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. First implemented in Sweden in the 1990s, Vision Zero has proved successful across Europe — and now it’s gaining momentum in major American cities. Learn more.

What is the Massachusetts Vision Zero Coalition?

A:

The Massachusetts Vision Zero Coalition advocates for the implementation of Vision Zero in Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville, and for the adoption of Vision Zero throughout the metro area and state of Massachusetts. The new and growing coalition includes community-based organizations, nonprofits, businesses, civic groups and individuals representing communities across the state. Learn More.

Which Massachusetts cities have committed to Vision Zero?

A:

The City of Boston committed to Vision Zero in March 2015.


"Mayor Walsh announced that the City of Boston will adopt Vision Zero, based on the premise that traffic fatalities are not accidents, but rather they are crashes that can be  prevented by effective policies and systematic evaluation, enforcement, engineering, education, and  community engagement.  By adopting Vision Zero, the City of Boston joins cities such as New York, San  Francisco, and Chicago, which have committed to making traffic safety a priority. Toward that end, Mayor Walsh has convened a Vision Zero Task Force to develop an action plan for a comprehensive and coordinated strategy to eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries in Boston." Learn more.


The City of Cambridge committed to Vision Zero in March 2016


"On March 21, 2016, the Cambridge City Council unanimously passed resolutions put forth by the City Manager to formally adopt Vision Zero and Complete Streets policies, showing that the City of Cambridge is committed to achieving these goals. Vision Zero calls for the elimination of fatalities and serious injuries resulting from traffic crashes, and emphasizes that they can and should be prevented. The City of Cambridge is the 17th city in the U.S. to commit to a Vision Zero policy." Learn more.


The City of Somerville committed to Vision Zero in September 2017

"Somerville strives to become the most walkable, bikeable, transit-friendly city in America, and if we’re going to get there, we must be bold, and we must bolster our dedication to safer streets.” – Mayor Joseph Curtatone. Learn more.

 

I'm concerned about traffic safety in my community. How do I get involved?

A:

First step - sign up to receive emails, review our online resources, or reach out to us for support. You can also learn more about the organizations that are part of the coalition, including WalkMassachusetts and MassBike, which are organizations involved in state-wide advocacy.

I can't volunteer, but I'd love to support with a donation. How can I do that?

A:

Consider making a gift to one of the nonprofit organizations that make up the coalition. Meet our coalition members.