On August 22, 2017, the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) hosted its fourth Vision Zero workshop at the Tampa Theatre in downtown Tampa. The MPO adopted a Vision Zero policy early in 2016 to stop traffic deaths in our county, cities, and neighborhoods, and then hosted a series of workshops throughout the year to get community feedback, compiling the suggestions for the Action Plan. 

Before unveiling the final Vision Zero Action Plan, the workshop highlighted the “One Message, Many Voices” goal of engaging the victims of traffic violence and their families. A short film was shown that told the stories of people who were involved in or affected by traffic crashes. Following the film, Michael Schwaid, whose recovery from a severe bicycle crash inspired Bike/Walk Tampa Bay to name him Bicyclist of the Year, spoke to the crowd about his experience. 

“We know that storytelling is an effective tool for changing behavior and helps provide a support system and a platform for victims’ voices to be heard,” said Gena Torres, an Executive Planner for the MPO. 

“With the unveiling of the Vision Zero Action Plan, it’s time for all of us to embrace a strategy and move it forward,” said Torres. “The Action Plan lists ideas that individuals, groups, or businesses can take part in that will lead to the reduction of injuries and deaths on our roadways.  So whether you want to book a speaker, become a speaker, organize a pop-up engineering treatment, review technical manuals, or simply take the Vision Zero Pledge, please get involved.”

Click here to read more about Hillsborough County’s Vision Zero plan, watch the short film, take the pledge, and make comments on an interactive map!