Purpose of the Project:

MoDOT is committed to prioritizing safety for all users of the state transportation system. While the majority of traffic fatalities are the result of poor decision-making (e.g., lack of seat belt use, excessive speed, etc.), MoDOT can influence the outcomes of crashes by designing roadways and implementing safety features that either prevent and reduce crashes or minimize the consequences. While engineering solutions cannot completely compensate for risky behaviors, they are a key component of the safe system approach to eliminate traffic fatalities.

Over the years, MoDOT has implemented several safety improvements through various Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) projects. This measure seeks to further accelerate safety of the system by ensuring every STIP project, regardless of scope, considers potential safety improvements to the roadway.

GAUGING THE PROGRESS:

In order to gauge progress, the following metrics will be tracked:

1. The number and percentage of projects incorporating safety improvements.
2. The total funds programmed for safety improvements; and
3. The anticipated reductions in fatalities and serious injuries.

To date, the following progress has been made:

• Additional funding has been provided to districts for programming safety improvements.
• A resource called SAFER has been created to prompt and guide project scoping teams in adequately considering safety improvements most likely to reduce the likelihood of death and serious injury. Every STIP project should conduct a SAFER assessment.
• SAFER has been presented and discussed with many groups, including MoDOT staff, planning partners, LPA representatives, and professional organizations like ITS.
• SAFER was added to the EPG in articles 907 and 104.
• A webinar for SAFER and the safety evaluation process was presented and recorded in July.
• The Transportation Planning and Highway Safety and Traffic divisions are meeting with each district to discuss the programming of safety funds and use of SAFER.