For years, Alexandria has been working to reframe the way we think about our streets and redesign them to be safe, accessible, comfortable, and even enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation. Part of the City’s Vision Zero philosophy is that no loss of human life is acceptable on our roadways, and that fatalities and severe injuries are not inevitable “accidents”, but crashes that can be prevented by employing a holistic, safe system approach. 

For the first time since the City of Alexandria’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating roadway deaths and severe injuries was adopted in 2017, the City has ended the year with zero fatalities. While this does not necessarily indicate a trend or suggest that the City’s goal has been accomplished, it is a major milestone that demonstrates Vision Zero is achievable. 

And yet, it’s important to note that many individuals and families are still grappling with long-term impacts of traffic crashes. While Alexandria concluded 2023 with zero fatalities, there were over a dozen severe injury crashes last year. The people affected by these crashes are parents, children, spouses, siblings, friends, neighbors, and colleagues, and these crashes can bring lifelong pain, disability, and trauma. Some victims of severe crashes may also succumb to their injuries later on. In at least one case in 2023, a crash victim is still fighting for their life in an intensive care unit. Roadway safety improvements can help prevent these kinds of tragedies.  

In 2024, let us remember those who have suffered the impacts of traffic crashes and continue our efforts to create safe streets for all. 

More information on the City’s Vision Zero Program can be found on the program webpage. Additional resources include the Vision Zero Action Plan, Vision Zero Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Work Plan, and Vision Zero Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2023.