Decatur's Innovative Pace Car Program: Driving Safer Streets for All

Decatur, Georgia, has taken a proactive approach to addressing pedestrian safety and traffic concerns within the city. The implementation of a pace car program for city vehicles, along with a range of other initiatives, aims to promote safer driving practices and protect all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Empowering Residents to Lead the Way in Safer Driving

Decatur's pace car program is a unique initiative that encourages both city officials and residents to become active participants in creating a safer driving environment. By providing magnets and stickers for city-issued vehicles and making them available to the public, the city is fostering a sense of community responsibility and leading by example.

Pace Cars Set the Tone for Safer Speeds

The pace car program is designed to set the tone for driving within the city limits. All city-issued vehicles, including police vehicles, will display the pace car magnet or sticker, signaling to other drivers that they are committed to traveling at or below the posted speed limit. This visual cue serves as a constant reminder to all motorists that they are in a pedestrian-friendly environment, where safety is the top priority.

Residents Embrace the Pace Car Pledge

Decatur residents can also participate in the pace car program by picking up a magnet or sticker from City Hall or the Public Works Department. By displaying these visual aids on their personal vehicles, residents are making a commitment to drive safely and set the pace for others on the road. This grassroots approach empowers the community to take an active role in promoting safer driving practices and creating a culture of responsible road usage.

Addressing Pedestrian Safety Concerns

The pace car program is part of a broader initiative by Decatur city leaders to address the recent spike in crashes involving pedestrians. Since November 2023, the city has witnessed several incidents where drivers have struck and injured or even killed pedestrians, highlighting the urgent need for action.

Comprehensive Approach to Improving Road Safety

In addition to the pace car program, Decatur is implementing a range of other measures to enhance pedestrian safety and slow down traffic. These initiatives include installing speed cameras in school zones, building new sidewalks and implementing traffic-calming measures, installing audible crosswalk signals, and improving lighting at key intersections.

Collaboration with State Authorities

The city is also working closely with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to address safety concerns on the state routes that run through Decatur. GDOT has evaluated the speed limits on these roads and is considering measures such as lowering speed limits and adding "no turn on red" signs at certain intersections.

Securing Funding for Comprehensive Improvements

Decatur has also secured funding through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program to implement a complete street approach on Scott Boulevard. This project will include the addition of a 10-foot multiuse path, a vegetation buffer, and a center median, all aimed at creating a safer and more accessible thoroughfare for all road users.

Developing a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan

Furthermore, Decatur is actively engaged in the Safe Streets for All planning process, which is being funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program. This comprehensive approach will incorporate a variety of recommendations related to vehicle and pedestrian safety, including the potential implementation of red light cameras.By taking a multifaceted approach to improving road safety, Decatur is demonstrating its commitment to creating a more pedestrian-friendly and sustainable transportation network. The pace car program, coupled with the city's other initiatives, is a testament to its dedication to prioritizing the safety and well-being of all who use its streets.