On May 1, York Region held a virtual public meeting to discuss its Vision Zero Traveller Safety Plan. Caroline Berryman, Program Manager, opened the session by outlining the meeting agenda and explaining participation guidelines.

It’s important to note that while the global Vision Zero Network strives to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries, York Region’s plan only aims for a 10% reduction by 2028—a target that falls short of the ambition implied by the Vision Zero name.

Following the introduction, fellow Program Manager Nelson Costa led a presentation focused on safety initiatives implemented across the region.Costa began by showing a video filmed on the streets of Richmond Hill, illustrating real-world examples of safety measures in place. These included “Slow Down” pavement markings, various traffic signage, and automated speed enforcement cameras. The goal of these initiatives is to reduce pedestrian fatalities and improve overall road safety.

His presentation focused on several key areas:

• Safe System Approach: A model built on layered protection and accommodating human error.
• Five Key Focus Areas: Emphasizing protection for vulnerable road users and intersections.
• Fatality Statistics (2018): National – 2,431; Ontario – 602; York Region – 33.
• Fatality Trends: A 4% increase in road fatalities from 2018 to 2019.
• Severe Collision Trends: Decreases or stability in Richmond Hill, Markham, and Vaughan; increases in other municipalities.
• Implemented Measures: A total of 221 safety measures (across 75 types) have been implemented across the region, including 36 in Richmond Hill.

While most actions outlined in the plan involve signage and road surface markings, Costa noted that roundabouts—widely recognized for their potential to significantly improve traffic safety—have only undergone preliminary feasibility studies, with no implementation to date.

To conclude the meeting, participants were invited to share their feedback through an interactive online map, where they could drop a pin and describe safety concerns in specific locations.

Although the one-hour session was promoted as a public feedback event, it lacked any real interactivity. The presenters delivered a scripted presentation that could have easily been prerecorded, and public input was limited to leaving comments on a map for a few days.

The survey remains open for a limited time at this web address.