MDOT SHA Surveying Vulnerable Road Users

It wants to find out about any safety concerns they have.Baltimore, Md (KM) A survey is underway in Maryland for vulnerable road users such as bicyclists, pedestrians and roller skaters. The online poll, called the Vulnerable Road User Assessment, . is being conducted by the Maryland Department of Transportation/State Highway Administration’s Office of Traffic and Safety. Director Cedric Ward says it’s not just limited to state roads. “It’s a statewide plan. It’s not just on state highways. But it literally looks at every road segment in our state. But part of that process is we need to get engagement from the communities,” he says.Ward says the participants can comment on specific highways close to their homes and places of employment. “It’s not just focused on state highways. It looks at the whole state and any kind of any roadway segment in the state,” he says. And that include  county and municipal roads.SHA says Maryland’s first Vulnerable Road User Passement was conducted in November, 2023., and is being updated this year. After this year, the assessment will be updated every five years.Not only will participants in the survey get to comment on current road conditions, but also offer some recommendations for improvements. “It allows you to add what do you think should be the safety improvements. What’s lacking? Is it adding new sidewalks? Is it a new traffic signal? Is it reducing the road from two lanes to one lane?” asks  Ward..The survey is expected to close at midnight, August 7th.Ward says the results of the survey will be placed in the SHA”s report as part of its strategic highway safety plan. “We at State Highway plan to use that feedback on implementing solutions and helping guide and tailor  solutions that best fit needs for the communities,” he says.As part of the survey, SHA will host five virtual public  meetings where residents can ask questions and put forward recommendations.  . The one covering Frederick County and Western Maryland is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23rd from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.By Kevin McManus