Walkability Wins Part Thirty-Eight: Safer Streets, Stronger Communities

A young woman walks down a green sidewalk.

In this installment of Walkability Wins, we are highlighting wins from Michigan to Arizona

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Ypsilanti’s Southside is getting a big safety boost with $162,970 from SEMCOG’s Transportation Alternatives Program. Harriet and Hawkins streets will see ADA-compliant crosswalks, curb bumpouts to calm traffic, and better pedestrian visibility, particularly near schools and parks. The upgrades, tied to utility work, promise safer, more walkable streets for everyone.

Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma is paving the way for safer streets as the City Council approved a resolution to keep funding for critical street improvements by continuing a 0.1% sales tax starting April 2026, replacing the expiring tax. This ensures investments in safety enhancements like sidewalks and traffic-calming. With at least 15% of funds dedicated to safety upgrades, the measure also supports Vision Zero goals, equity in underserved areas, and economic growth. 

Twin Oaks, Colorado

Twin Oaks has finished the first phase of its citywide walkability project. Starting with Crescent Ave, the city has added improvements to help residents safely access Twin Oaks Park. City officials highlighted the importance of the much-needed upgrades on this busy road and celebrated Twin Oaks’ becoming more walkable. The next phase includes more sidewalks and connections.

Richmond, California

Richmond landed over $9.5 million from the Reconnecting Communities Pilot program to enhance safety along Harbour Way and Ohio Avenue. New bike lanes, ADA-compliant sidewalks, better lighting, lane reductions, and green infrastructure will create safer, more accessible streets. These upgrades reduce barriers for underserved communities and promote sustainable transportation. City leaders celebrate this funding as a big win for Richmond’s efforts to build safer, greener, and more connected neighborhoods.

Arizona

Arizona is receiving and investing over $5 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance road, pedestrian, and cyclist safety. Funded by the Safe Streets and Roads for All Program, projects include enhancing safety to pedestrians and cyclists, reduce car crashes, ADA accessibility, Complete Streets and Safe Routes to School and public outreach initiatives. These initiatives aim to protect vulnerable road users and promote safer, more connected communities statewide.


To catch up on previous installments of Walkability Wins, visit our blog. Have a win? Send it to us: social@americawalks.org.