2030 TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY PLAN

Year 2030
Metropolitan Transportation and Mobility Plan

Time for New Directions
Transportation Safety Plan and Strategy

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Element #7

Develop and Implement a Road Safety Audit (RSA) Program for BSMPO Member Jurisdictions’ Local Roads and Streets.

Utilizing the RSA methodologies established through the FHWA and several different state departments of transportation, develop a RSA procedure for the BSMPO member jurisdictions for use on local roads and streets.  The BSMPO procedures will be consistent with those of the above referenced agencies as they relate to the program framework and format however the BSMPO RSA program will not contain the certification requirements for the RSA team members.  It is envisioned that the BSMPO RSA procedures will be utilized more in the planning and project selection phases of road improvements than in the design, construction, or project evaluation.  It is also envisioned that the BSMPO RSA program and procedures will be designed to compliment any RSA program or activity that may be established through the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department.

Element #8

Bike and Motorcycle Helmet Utilization Safety Campaign

The BSMPO will initiate an awareness campaign relating to the use of helmets and other rider protective gear for the region’s bicyclists and motorcyclists.  This campaign will be developed in cooperation with local school districts, bicycle shops and dealers, bike clubs, law enforcement agencies, and other interested parties.  The bike campaign will focus on the safety aspects and health benefits of helmet utilization at all times when riding a bike.  Schools will be asked to participate by requiring helmet use at all times while on school property as well as offering positive reinforcement programs for compliance.  The BSMPO will also initiate discussions about the use of helmets and other protective gear with local motorcyclists, clubs, dealers, and enthusiasts. It is anticipated that these discussions will involve requesting the various clubs, enthusiasts, and dealers to participate in activities where they might mentor the younger riders in the region relative to safe riding habits and personal responsibilities regarding protection, behavior, and respect for all motor vehicle laws.

The State of Arkansas no longer requires motorcyclists to wear protective head gear but the safety implications and potential for serious injury have created an opportunity to further educate and inform the motorcycle community about the use and non-use of helmets and protective gear.

Element #9

Work Zone Safety Awareness for Local Jurisdictions

Work zone safety is not only an issue for state departments of transportation but it is also an issue for work zone areas within the BSMPO local jurisdictions.  The BSMPO area, on a regular basis, has a considerable amount of locally funded transportation improvements underway on local roads and streets.  These maintenance and construction projects have increased in recent years commence rant with the local jurisdictions’ dedicated sales taxes for road and street improvements.  Whether it is from speeding or improper lane use, the safety of all personnel working within and near the work zone needs to be enhanced and protected.  The BSMPO will offer its resources to each jurisdiction in the preparation of advertisements, brochures, and other informational materials geared to protect all individuals associated with transportation improvements to the local roads and streets.  The BSMPO will also work with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department to make sure that the BSMPO Work Zone Safety Awareness efforts are consistent with those of the State.

Element #10

Amber Alert Support

The BSMPO will support and promote the Amber Alert program by offering an Amber Alert space on the BSMPO website Homepage. The BSMPO will also incorporate, as appropriate, the transportation related child safety materials that have been made available through the Department of Justice’s Amber Alert website.  The BSMPO will coordinate all of its Amber Alert activities and initiatives with the appropriate staff member of the Arkansas State Police who has been designated as the statewide Amber Alert coordinator.

Element #11

Advancing Safety Awareness and Behavior for Teenage Drivers.

The BSMPO will work with the region’s school districts, junior and senior high schools, PTAs, and law enforcement agencies to initiate a “Teens in the Driver Seat” program for the BSMPO area.  “Teens in the Driver Seat” is an awareness program developed by the Texas Transportation Institute at Texas A&M University.  It’s intent and focus is to reduce the number of teenage vehicular related fatalities through an awareness campaign developed by and implemented by teenagers.  The BSMPO will actively work with any and all interested teen groups or schools to implement this highly successful program.

Element #12

Advance Pedestrian Safety in Transit Stop Locations.

BSMPO will work with the Fort Smith Transit and the other transit providers of the River Valley Transit Providers in assessing the safety of the riding public in and near transit stop locations.  Upon identification of any safety considerations or recommended improvements, the BSMPO will continue to work with individual jurisdictions to obtain the necessary funds to implement the improvements.  Where and when necessary, the BSMPO Staff will undertake the appropriate steps to amend the BSMPO Transportation Improvement Program.

Element #13

Advance the Incorporation of Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) in the BSMPO Planning Program

BSMPO Staff will explore the potential of incorporating the basic principles of CSS in the planning and conceptual phases of project development.  Elements of CSS will be a part of the review and analysis functions of Elements # 1, 4, 7, & 11.