Vision Zero is coming into sharper focus.
Wilmington’s Vision Zero policy, which has a goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries in the city, was amended by the Wilmington City Council on Sept. 22.
The amended policy directs the city manager to appoint a Vision Zero Steering Committee within 45 days of the resolution’s adoption. That committee will develop and present a safety plan to the council.
It also updates committee titles, structures, roles and timelines, as well as department and position titles reflecting the recent city reorganization, according to a city background document.
The original versions of the resolution and associated Vision Zero policy were approved Sept. 23, 2025.
Where the money comes from
Funding for Vision Zero initiatives will continue
through North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles license fee revenues allocated to the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Management project. Grants and other funding sources identified by the City Council may supplement that funding in the future.
The city describes Vision Zero as a holistic strategy aimed at eliminating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries. The intent is to design streets and transportation systems to move people safely, including pedestrians, bicyclists, public transit users, scooter riders and motorcyclists as well as motor vehicle drivers and passengers.
The city said its transportation infrastructure serves an increasing number of vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and bicyclists.
Traffic death statistics
Wilmington experienced 120 traffic deaths between 2014 and 2023, according to the city. The city said Department of Motor Vehicles data showed bicyclists were involved in only 2% of collisions during that period but accounted for 38% of traffic deaths.
During that period, 99% of pedestrians and 98% of bicyclists involved in collisions with vehicles suffered some type of injury, according to the city.
The city said speed has been identified as a major factor in crashes and that it is working to reduce vehicle speeds.
The city already adopted the 2023 Walk Wilmington Plan and is participating in the development of the Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Safe Streets and Roads for All Safety Action Plan.
Bob Liepa is the city of Wilmington and public safety reporter for the StarNews. You can reach him at RLiepa@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Wilmington updates policy to curb traffic deaths
