At the Safe Streets Fund, we face the constant challenge of making traffic safety a priority in a large, diverse city, where it often seems like everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere and multi-tasking as they go. We must sustain and expand programs that change the culture of how drivers, pedestrians and cyclists relate and share the streets. SSF bridges the public and private spheres and creates lasting partnerships that benefit everyone in our communities. Your tax deductible donation will help us to continue to save lives and prevent serious injuries on New York City streets.
Safe Streets Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization, was launched in 1989 as Traffic Safety Inc. by the NYC Department of Transportation. Since then our partnerships have grown to include many award-winning safety programs, including Safety City, to help those most at risk for traffic collisions.
Our highly effective education strategies are showing results. 2009 was the safest year ever on record on New York City Streets, with a 35 percent reduction in traffic fatalities compared to 2001.
Still there is much work to be done. While fatalities among motorists were down 63% in 2009 as compared to 2001, pedestrian fatalities have not fallen as rapidly. In 2009, 155 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes. That’s one nearly every other day. We can change these statistics, however, if we continue to build a culture of respect for all pedestrians, motorists, and cyclists using ourNew York City streets.
Safe Streets Fund works closely with the DOT to fund and pioneer street safety programs and campaigns for a broad audience. This partnership allows local groups, schools, philanthropists, businesses, and regular New Yorkers to play a vital role in city government and help direct changes in their community. This union also helps the DOT achieve their safety goals on city streets by providing private sector support. Together, the DOT and its local affiliates in the Safe Streets Fund can create a lasting culture of respect and safety on ourNew York Citystreets. Learn more about DOT safety efforts here
In order to solve the most pressing issues of the 21st century, we must rely on everyone: citizens, policymakers, businesses, and communities, to work together to reach lasting solutions that benefit all members of our society.