Chattanooga Launches Safety Website, Highlighting Necessary Changes Coming to Frazier Ave

By Mary-Beth Mangrum
Mon, July 29th 2024 at 4:53 PM
Updated Mon, July 29th 2024 at 6:42 PM

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — The City of Chattanooga has launched a new website dedicated to street safety, which brings attention to a spike in fatal pedestrian accidents last year. One of the most tragic incidents was on Frazier Avenue, prompting the city to redesign the street in hopes of preventing future accidents.

Details of the Tragic Event

In November, a woman and her child were tragically killed by a driver on Frazier Avenue. The accident occurred when the driver collided with another vehicle and veered off the roadway, hitting the pedestrians on the sidewalk.

Redesigning Frazier Avenue

Following the accident, the city has put plans in motion to redesign Frazier Avenue. The new design includes multi-modal lanes, providing dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists. This project is slated to begin in early fall.

Expert Opinions on Street Safety

Urban experts were consulted about the redesign, with some questioning if these changes would be enough. The City of Chattanooga’s safer streets website now offers access to pedestrian accident data from 2016 to 2022, emphasizing the need for ongoing safety improvements.

Mike McGinn, executive director of America Walks, stated, “It also highlights that it’s a bigger problem about how to get the state to get more concerned about that as well… Local departments of transportation often prioritize safety.”

Community Involvement Through the New Website

The website features a survey form where residents can provide input and conduct walk audits to assess street safety throughout the city. “It really is just getting a group of people to walk down the street together, identify issues, and propose fixes,” McGinn explained.

Holding the City Accountable

Jon Wesolowski, a pedestrian and cycling advocate, commented, “**Too many people are getting hurt, too many people are dying. Now is the time for political will and political action**.” He suggested that the city should consider temporary quick builds, similar to initiatives in Nashville, to implement immediate safety improvements before final changes are made.

Legal Actions

The driver involved in the November accident, Randy Vega, was recently indicted by a grand jury. He faces several charges, including vehicular homicide and DUI.

Stay connected with us for more updates on the progress of these vital street safety improvements in Chattanooga.

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