We showed up at seven key agencies to demand a refocus on Vision Zero – here’s what happened

Ten years ago, San Francisco was the third city in the nation to adopt Vision Zero: a comprehensive, proven, and preventative approach to end severe and fatal traffic crashes. At its core, Vision Zero is a commitment to do everything possible to prevent suffering, trauma, and tragedy on our streets.

We believe in Vision Zero. So do the 30+ community-based organizations, nonprofits, and civic groups that are part of the Vision Zero Coalition. 

With so many people still being hurt and killed in traffic crashes in San Francisco, it can be easy to feel disillusioned about Vision Zero. But Vision Zero as an approach can only succeed if it happens at the scale and pace needed, and by layering safety throughout our transportation system and streets. 

So the question is: what is really needed for San Francisco to accelerate progress on Vision Zero?

This question is what brought together 30+ community-based organizations, nonprofits, and civic groups that are part of the Vision Zero Coalition. Together, the Vision Zero Coalition developed seven recommendations for City leaders to bring Vision Zero back into focus and back on track.

Then, over the past couple of months, Walk SF staff started showing up every place possible to get the attention of City leaders – and the commissions that can hold them accountable. 

We went to public meetings of seven agencies: the San Francisco County Transportation Authority, Fire Department, SFMTA, Public Health, Police Department, Public Utilities Commission, and Department of Public Works. During public comment, we asked for the leaders and commissioners of these agencies to read – and lead – on the Vision Zero Coalition’s recommendations.

My experience doing this sometimes felt empowering, but other times demoralizing. Very few members of the public attend most of these commission meetings, so I did feel heard, and got some good questions from some commissioners. 

It was hard to see that Vision Zero is not on the radar for many city leaders despite this issue affecting all of us, every day. 

But we got started, and we will build on this – and build momentum in many more ways – so that San Francisco makes good on the promise of Vision Zero. 

Thank you to Walk SF members and Rahman Law: your support is how Walk SF can show up and demand more for safe streets.