Nevada targets $10 million for pedestrian safety projects

The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) dedicated $10 million from state highway funds for pedestrian safety in Clark and Washoe counties on Feb. 9.

NDOT said that nine pedestrian deaths have occurred so far this year, five more than during the same period last year. Annual pedestrian fatalities jumped to 68 from 35 between 2013 and 2014, showing a great need for better pedestrian safety.

The State Transportation Board approved a list of safety enhancement projects recently, including crosswalk and sidewalk lighting enhancements to improve visibility, pedestrian warning signals, median islands and dividers at certain crossings.

“Every death and serious injury on Nevada roads is a tragedy, and nothing is more important to us than the safety of our transportation system," NDOT Director Rudy Malfabon said. "This funding is an extension of the planning and projects which NDOT and our partners put in place each year to enhance safety and save lives. We know, too, how important education is to provide all road users with tips to help stay safe. Our Zero Fatalities educational campaign has reached nearly 98 percent of Nevadans with important traffic safety information."

Most projects will occur in southern Nevada. On Boulder Highway at Sun Valley Drive, a Danish offset will be angled to make pedestrians look forward when crossing to the other side. A complete street redesign on Lake Mead Boulevard will include mid-block crossings, ADA improvements and lane narrowing to widen sidewalks. Traffic signals will be added at Blue Diamond Road at El Capitan Way and Fort Apache Road.

NDOT targeted the projects to be quickly put in place to enhance pedestrian safety.