Pittsburgh cuts crashes to 20-year low
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Traffic collisions in the city of Pittsburgh are declining rapidly.
Why it matters: While crashes nationwide have remained steady since the pandemic, collisions in Pittsburgh are at a two-decade low and officials want to highlight that success.
Driving the news: The city is hosting its first Vision Zero Summit today in Oakland.
- The event brings together local leaders, advocates, planners and engineers to discuss how to achieve zero deaths and serious injuries on city roadways.
By the numbers: Fatal crashes on city streets have declined over the past three years, according to city data.
- 21 people died in crashes within the city in 2024
- There were less than 3,000 vehicle collisions last year, which was down 32% compared to the 20-year average.
What they're saying: "Every life lost to traffic violence is one too many. That's why Pittsburgh is committed to building safe, accessible streets for everyone," said Mayor Ed Gainey.
State of play: The city has added 24 miles of bike infrastructure since 2009 — including several miles of traffic-claiming "neighborways" — according to Bike Pittsburgh.
- It has also redesigned scores of streets to make them more pedestrian friendly and approved the use of and selected a vendor for automated red light enforcement.
Follow the money: The city increased traffic-calming funds by 136% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Speakers at the summit — which is sold out — include Gainey, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorto, and Bike Pittsburgh director Scott Bricker.