News Summary
Bike/Walk Central Florida has released its 2023-2024 Impact Report highlighting significant progress in creating safer biking and walking environments. Key initiatives include the expansion of the Best Foot Forward program across several counties, the distribution of helmets and bicycles to children, and collaboration with MetroPlan Orlando on safety action plans. The ongoing efforts aim to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities, ultimately working toward Central Florida’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths by 2040. The community’s support continues to pave the way for a safer future.
Exciting Progress on Safe Streets in Central Florida!
Central Florida is buzzing with great news as Bike/Walk Central Florida recently unveiled their 2023–2024 Impact Report. The organization, which has been on a mission since 2010, has dedicated itself to promoting safe and convenient biking and walking spaces across the region. Their commitment to ensuring that our roads are safer for pedestrians and cyclists has truly paid off!
Improving Lives, One Crosswalk at a Time
A major highlight of the report is the expansion of the Best Foot Forward program, now reaching into Volusia, Brevard, and Marion Counties. This program is all about reducing pedestrian injuries and fatalities in areas that have often been seen as dangerous for those on foot or on wheels. With improvements in crosswalk engineering and enforcement, there are now 42 crosswalks that shine with enhanced safety! Imagine strolling down the street and knowing that crossing the road feels a lot safer!
But that’s not all. Hundreds of additional crosswalks are currently being monitored to ensure they meet safety standards. This proactive approach shows just how committed the organization is to protecting the most vulnerable users on the road.
Collaborative Safety Measures for a Brighter Future
In collaboration with MetroPlan Orlando, Bike/Walk Central Florida has been busy developing comprehensive safety action plans. These plans align perfectly with Central Florida’s Vision Zero initiatives, a national effort dedicated to wiping out all pedestrian traffic deaths and serious injuries by the year 2040. This goal may seem ambitious, but with the right plans in place, eliminating fatalities on our roads is within reach!
Empowering the Next Generation
Among its many accomplishments, the organization proudly distributed 1,392 helmets and 237 bicycles to children through their Bike/Walk Kids Program. This initiative not only puts kids on wheels but teaches them the importance of safety while enjoying their rides. And speaking of enjoyment, the annual Bike 5 Cities ride, held in October, brought together over 100 volunteers. It’s heartwarming to see the community come together for a common cause!
Advocacy and Education at the Forefront
Last year, nearly 100 advocacy and education events were conducted, showcasing the organization’s commitment to spreading the word about safe biking and walking. Educating the public and advocating for safer roads helps ensure that everyone is aware of the importance of keeping our streets user-friendly.
Diverse Experience Strengthening the Mission
Bike/Walk Central Florida has also expanded its staff and board membership, bringing in individuals with a wealth of experience and expertise. This diverse team is constantly working on a data-driven approach, leading to improvements in how drivers yield at crosswalks. Simple but effective tactics like in-street signage and stop bar striping have been acknowledged for their success and are being picked up by other agencies eager to enhance safety as well.
A Brighter Future for Vulnerable Road Users
The accomplishments shared in the Impact Report certainly paint a picture of great success for 2023–2024. The ongoing efforts of Bike/Walk Central Florida are paving the way for a brighter and safer future for all road users, particularly those most at risk — pedestrians and cyclists. With every initiative and every helmet distributed, the organization moves closer to its goal of making Central Florida a model for safe walking and biking.
As the community continues to support these efforts, everyone can look forward to streets that are not only safer but also more enjoyable for years to come!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Orlando Takes Steps to Enhance School Safety with New Zones and Speed Cameras
Additional Resources
- Your Community Paper
- Wikipedia: Bicycle Safety
- Visit Orlando
- Google Search: Biking in Orlando
- Click Orlando
- Google Scholar: Bicycle Safety Education
- Miami Herald
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Central Florida Transportation
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
