Pedestrian fatalities increased 57 percent over a 10-year period (2010-2019). Although bicycle crashes have trended downward during the same period, more cyclists died in 2019 than in 2018.
In hopes of reducing those numbers, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), representing 32 local governments, is launching an education and enforcement campaign. In recognition of research that indicates most crashes occur when drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians don’t see each other, this new campaign is called “See Me AZ.”
Along with a regional awareness program, beginning in mid-April, four pilot cities will ramp up their enforcement efforts. During a targeted two-week period, Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler and Glendale will heighten enforcement activities. Results of the campaign will be captured through both pre- and post-surveys.
“The safety of everyone on our roads is critically important,” said Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers, chair of the MAG Regional Council. “We know that traffic crashes involving pedestrian deaths are a growing public health concern and that we need to quickly figure out the root causes, as we all share the responsibility when it comes to road safety.”
Enforcement activities will vary in each city. For specifics by jurisdiction, please contact: Phoenix: Sgt. Maggie Cox, PhoenixPD.PIO@phoenix.gov; Glendale: Sgt. Matt Moody, 623-262-2019; Tempe: Det. Natalie Barela, 480-350-8414; Chandler: Det. Zachary Waters, 480-677-5979 or cpdpio@chandleraz.gov.
Toolkits and other materials are available at SeeMeAZ.com. Key messages include “Be aware. Be seen. Be safe.” “We all share responsibility.” And “See me as I walk. See me as I ride. See me as I drive.”
