In 2021, 60 people were killed by traffic-related incidents in San José, a record number for the city. In comparison, Oakland's total number of traffic deaths is half that number and San Francisco falls at 27 traffic deaths.

The difference between San José and other big cities nearby? The ability for people to walk, bike, and use public transit are a lot lower. According to walkscore.com, San Jose ranks:

• Walk Score: 51/100
• Transit Score: 40/100
• Bike Score: 62/100

We need to demand that San José council members create more streets that are pedestrian and bicyclist-friendly. Strategies like blocking off streets for pedestrian and bicyclist usage only, adding buffers between bike lanes and car traffic, and restricting pedestrian entry to expressways in places other than crosswalks.

The benefits don't end at traffic safety. Walkable cities provide great economic value as well. In Portland, residents drive 20% less on average, which has resulted in a "$1.2 billion 'green dividend' that tends to stay in the local economy, supporting local business" (Steuteville 2021). Additionally, it can help reduce motor vehicle and road costs.

Sign the petition to join in the fight for pedestrian and bicyclist safety.

Citations: https://www.mercurynews.com/2022/01/28/san-jose-shattered-records-for-roadway-deaths-last-year-2022-looks-even-deadlier/​

https://www.walkscore.com/CA/​

https://www.cnu.org/publicsquare/2021/08/18/ten-economic-benefits-walkable-places