Milwaukee’s Vision Zero initiative; city leaders share traffic safety data

MILWAUKEE - Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Vision Zero held a news conference on Monday, March 9 to highlight progress made through Milwaukee’s Vision Zero initiative and share new data demonstrating improvements in traffic safety across the city.

Milwaukee’s Vision Zero initiative

What we know:

The event was held at South Division High School, where recent street design improvements have helped calm traffic and improve safety near the school.

What they're saying:

"Just last year was a positive year for Vision Zero here in Milwaukee," said Mayor Johnson. "Traffic deaths in Milwaukee declined 19 percent compared to 2024 and are down more than 26 percent from the peak year in 2022 when we committed to Vision Zero as a goal in the city of Milwaukee. That progress is not accidental. It's a result of coordinated action across city government in partnership with the community."

City leaders highlighted the ways departments, community organizations, and schools are working together to advance traffic safety, including partnerships with Milwaukee Public Schools that support safe driving education and awareness among young people.

"The Vision Zero team engaged residents at over 123 events. Our partners amplified that reach. One great example is the Wisconsin Bicycle Federation," said Jessica Weinberg Vision Zero director. "They alone participated in an additional 50 events, delivered youth-focused programming that really focused on safe biking, youth leadership, and equitable transportation options. Through this partnership, 3,500 people received additional safety education, 575 bikes were repaired for free, 230 bikes were given away, and 40 team leaders were supported."

The event also previewed Milwaukee’s upcoming Vision Zero Summit, a community-focused gathering that will bring together residents, advocates, and professionals to continue advancing strategies that improve safety, equity, and accessibility on Milwaukee streets.

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About Vision Zero

Dig deeper:

Vision Zero is a citywide initiative that brings together multiple departments and community partners to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2037. 

Through a coordinated approach that includes safer street design, education, enforcement, and partnerships, the city is working to address the most dangerous behaviors and roadway conditions that contribute to severe crashes.