October is Pedestrian Safety Month: Making Our Streets Safer Together

October is Pedestrian Safety Month—a time to focus on the safety of those who walk and bike in our communities. At the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), we recognize the importance of creating a safe environment for pedestrians and are committed to promoting awareness and encouraging safe practices.

Pedestrian safety is a critical aspect of our urban infrastructure. With the increasing number of people choosing to walk for exercise, leisure, and transportation, it’s essential to ensure our roads are safe for everyone. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of pedestrians are injured or killed in traffic incidents each year. 

Key Safety Tips for Pedestrians

To help reduce accidents and promote safety, we encourage pedestrians to keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Crosswalks: Always cross at designated crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals. This helps drivers anticipate your movements.
2. Stay Alert: Put down your phone and pay attention to your surroundings. Distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving.
3. Wear Visible Clothing: Especially during dusk and dawn, wearing bright or reflective clothing can make you more visible to drivers.
4. Follow Traffic Signals: Abide by all traffic signals and signs, which are in place to protect you.

How THEA is Promoting Pedestrian Safety

At THEA, we are dedicated to enhancing the safety of our roadways for all users, including pedestrians. Here’s how we are making a difference:

• Infrastructure Improvements: We continuously invest in infrastructure enhancements, such as improved lighting, clearer signage, and safer crosswalks. Our recent projects, including enhancing the Selmon Greenway, focus on creating safer routes for pedestrians, particularly near schools and busy intersections.

As we recognize Pedestrian Safety Month, we encourage everyone in the Tampa Bay area to take part in this important initiative. Whether you’re a daily walker, a driver, or a community member, your actions can make a difference.

Spread the word, share your own pedestrian safety tips, and let’s work together to create a safer environment for all.