'They can be prevented': Milwaukee officially adopts Vision Zero Action Plan, aimed at eliminating traffic deaths

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Twenty-one people have been killed in traffic crashes in Milwaukee just this year, according to the city's traffic violence dashboard.

Milwaukee leaders hope there's a reality where that number will be zero, and a new strategy makes that a goal.

"We are safer, and we will be safer, and today we're taking a bold step forward to accomplish just that," said Mayor Cavalier Johnson, as he signed a resolution Tuesday officially adopting Milwaukee's Vision Zero Action Plan.

Vision Zero is a strategy used in cities across the world, with a goal to eliminate traffic deaths.

"They can be prevented, and the only reason they're not being prevented is because people are being careless, and they're driving extremely recklessly on the streets," said Mariah Johnson, a Vision Zero advocate.

The plan's adoption is especially meaningful to her after she lost her brother, Jerrold, in 2021.

"Two cars were racing down the street at 120 miles an hour, and they crashed into my brother, and him and his friend were killed on impact," Johnson said.

Since then, she has been working to stop reckless driving in Milwaukee.

"I feel like people don't realize how severe it is until it's in their front yard," she explained.

Vision Zero outlines 100 actions through seven key plans:

1. Build safe streets for all users, prioritizing most the dangerous roads

2. Support accountability in the justice system with a focus on prevention

3. Foster vibrant, people-centered places

4. Promote traffic safety through communication, encouragement, and education

5. Ensure timely and effective EMS and medical care

6. Advocate for safer vehicles

7. Champion state-level changes

"This plan, it makes Milwaukee stronger. It supports public safety, it supports economic vitality," Mayor Johnson said.

With the city focused on the reckless driving epidemic, progress has already been made. Traffic deaths in Milwaukee dropped by 7% last year.

The mayor said the city is currently re-designing the 9% of streets where 59% of serious crashes happen.

Vision Zero is a tool to keep city leaders and community members accountable.

"We have this initiative, so we need to come together as a community, reflect, and see how we can do better," Mariah Johnson said.

Click here to learn more about Milwaukee's Vision Zero Action Plan.