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“There is nothing more important than the safety of our children and families. We need a community where our kids can safely walk to school and people can bike to work. We all play a role. Our police, our schools and each one of us," Finch said.
The initiative has three primary focuses: education, enforcement and investment.
“Traffic woes and pedestrian safety are major concerns in nearly every city across the country, and Bridgeport, Conn., is no different,” he said. “In addressing these issues, it’s key to keep in mind that this is not just a police problem. This is a community problem, too. In order to find solutions, police will work with our traffic engineers, other city departments, and community leaders to develop strategies aimed at keeping kids and families safe.”
The city has consulted with the National Highway Administration and adopted a campaign aimed at educating both motorists and pedestrians about safety. The theme of the campaign is "Think of the impact you could make."
Building on the success of the “Friendly Reminder” program -- which educates people on how to avoid burglaries and car break-ins -- officers working downtown will stop pedestrians who are crossing unsafely and issue a “ticket” with reminders that will keep them safe.
School Resource Officers will work in the schools to reinforce to students the importance of crossing safely.
“This is a matter of changing habits both for motorists and pedestrians,” said Finch.
The Police Department has instituted SafetyStat, a weekly and comprehensive analysis of statistics related to pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents. The crime analysis unit is creating weekly, monthly and quarterly density maps showing problems locations.
“We’re letting the data drive our enforcement,” said Police Chief Joseph L. Gaudett Jr.
The department also will meet regularly to collaborate with other city departments that play a role in safety, such as Public Facilities, CitiStat and the traffic engineer.
Using a state grant, the city has purchased three additional radar trailers that remind motorists of their speed and slow traffic as well as three new laser speed guns to enhance enforcement.
“When it comes to pedestrian safety, one phrase comes to mind: ‘Think of the impact you could make,’” said Gaudett. “That’s the mantra we’re communicating to people across the city. The bottom line is that one pedestrian injury or fatality is too many. This new initiative seeks to further curb pedestrian incidents in Bridgeport, making our city a safer and more secure place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Last month, the traffic unit issued 663 tickets as part of a Distracted Driving High Visibility Enforcement initiative funded by the state Department of Transportation. The police department also has applied for a grant to fund drunken driving enforcement as the holidays approach.
The city is also exploring traffic calming solutions that have proven to slow down traffic.
“As we repave or redesign roadways, we will collaborate with the engineering department, the traffic engineer and the police department to see if we can incorporate traffic calming measures into the design,” said Public Facilities Director Jorge Garcia.
This could include roundabouts or curb bump outs.
In the meantime, the department will evaluate which streets would be appropriate for road striping. The technique effectively narrows the roadway, slowing cars, and creates a buffer for bicyclists and pedestrians.
“We are working to create a livable and safe community for all,” said Finch. “Pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists all need to share the road. You don’t get to work any sooner by speeding through our streets.”
Residents can also report safety concerns via the BConnected system. You can use it through a phone app, visit www.bridgeport.gov, or call 203-576-1311.
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