This page was generated automatically; to view the article in its source location, you may visit the link below:
https://nj.gov/governor/news/news/562025/approved/20250113a.shtml
and if you wish to remove this post from our website, please get in touch with us
Commission Intent on Ending Traffic Fatalities in New Jersey
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy has today enacted A1476/S361, establishing the Target Zero Commission aimed at eradicating traffic deaths and severe injuries in New Jersey by 2040. This group, consisting of 13 members, will include state representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOT), State Police, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, local transportation authorities, and others, collaborating to enhance safety on New Jersey’s roads for both drivers and pedestrians.
Present at the signing was Arland Macasieb, a rider and former professional triathlete, who overcame a life-changing collision with a vehicle while cycling in New Jersey in 2021. Despite ongoing medical obstacles from the incident, Macasieb continues to advocate for laws that improve safety for cyclists and non-motorized users.
“The measures we implement today will guarantee that families in New Jersey no longer experience the grief of losing a loved one to traffic incidents. The Commission will work together to emphasize safety and mobility, creating a clear strategy to ensure that everyone—whether on foot, cycling, driving, or utilizing public transport—can navigate safely in New Jersey,” stated Governor Murphy.
Traffic-related fatalities and injuries have significantly surged in New Jersey. Between 2023 and 2024, deaths rose by 14%, with pedestrian fatalities climbing by 32%.
The Target Zero Commission will concentrate on data-focused approaches prioritizing roadway design, speed regulation, and safety for all road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. The Commission will provide counsel to the Governor, Legislature, and the DOT on policies, programs, research, and priorities to help achieve the objective of eliminating traffic fatalities.
As mandated by the legislation, the Commission must develop an action plan within one year of the bill’s enactment, allowing public input on the suggested strategy. The Commission will also gather traffic safety data for public awareness, comprising information on hazardous intersections and crash demographics. Furthermore, resources and data will be made available to local governments to aid in crafting their own Target Zero plans.
“I share Governor Murphy’s vision for a more secure New Jersey, ensuring that every individual—whether walking, cycling, driving, or on public transport—can travel safely,” commented DOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor. “The New Jersey Department of Transportation is dedicated to improving roadway safety and eliminating fatalities. This commission will seek innovative ideas and technologies to devise practical solutions to critical roadway safety challenges in New Jersey.”
“The Target Zero Commission signifies a robust collaboration between state agencies and the citizens of New Jersey to pursue a singular, life-saving mission: to eradicate traffic fatalities,” remarked Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “By utilizing data-oriented strategies and emphasizing roadway design, speed management, and equity, we can guarantee a safer journey for every pedestrian, cyclist, and motorist. Together, we’re not only creating safer roads—we’re cultivating stronger communities and a promising future for every resident of our state.”
“As the most densely populated state in the country, it is of utmost importance that New Jersey employs all possible resources to ensure pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists coexist safely on the roads,” asserted Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “This legislation establishes a commission that unites transportation and traffic safety experts to guide lawmakers on the necessary research and public policies to eradicate traffic fatalities and injuries.”
“This legislation illustrates New Jersey’s unwavering commitment to traffic safety,” stated Michael J. Rizol Jr., Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Our united and cooperative efforts are crucial to making New Jersey roads even safer for everyone. I anticipate engaging in this vital work.”
“With the enactment of this significant law, the Motor Vehicle Commission looks forward to collaborating with various government partners to construct a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing transportation safety and accessibility for all New Jersey residents as part of the Target Zero Commission,” expressed Motor Vehicle Commission Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd. “Through cooperative endeavors that strive towards a ‘target zero’ future, we will work to diminish traffic injuries and fatalities, make our roads safer, and formulate policies and strategies that will better safeguard our residents as they navigate their daily lives and traverse our state’s busy transportation network.”
The principal sponsors of the Target Zero Commission legislation include Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, Assemblyman John Allen, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, Senator Patrick Diegnan, and Senator Raj Mukherji.
“The New Jersey Target Zero Commission embodies a collective effort to eradicate fatalities and serious injuries on our state’s highways,” commented Senator Patrick Diegnan, Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “From unimaginable tragedies, family members grieving their losses who have supported this bill continue to sustain the indomitable spirit of their loved ones, transforming heartbreaking loss into life-altering advocacy. They illustrate why making our roads safe for all users must be a paramount concern for our state. The Commission will outline a clear and comprehensive plan to save lives and safeguard our communities with the ambition of putting an end to the devastation caused by traffic incidents.”
“The endorsement of the Target Zero bill signifies a commitment to eliminating traffic fatalities and fostering safer communities for future generations,” commented Senator Raj Mukherji, Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “Today, New Jersey takes a courageous stride towards a future where every life on the road is valued. No one should suffer the sorrow of losing a loved one to a traffic death.”
“The rise of traffic fatalities in New Jersey is a trend we must urgently reverse,” asserted Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak. “I cannot fathom the anguish of losing a loved one in an avoidable traffic incident. No parent should ever have to bury a family member due to unsafe roads. No family deserves to endure the devastation brought about by reckless operators or treacherous roadways. These fatalities are preventable, and we must take decisive action to enhance safety.”
“This legislation serves as a reminder that traffic deaths can be prevented if adequate resources are allocated,” stated Assemblyman John Allen. “The commission formed by this legislation will assist us in devising and distributing resources to achieve zero fatalities, ultimately putting an end to pedestrian deaths.”
“Unifying trafficsafety specialists to investigate methods to enhance accessibility, fairness, and transportation is vital to reaching Target Zero,” stated Assemblywoman Linda Carter. “As we strive to make our roads more secure, we must take into account the requirements of drivers, pedestrians, and all who utilize our roadways.”
“The enactment of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission into law signifies a substantial advancement in our endeavors to improve roadway safety and ultimately establish safer communities for everyone,” remarked Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli. “This legislation will enable us to safeguard New Jersey’s road users via data-informed strategies, infrastructure modifications, and educational programs, all focused on attaining our objective of zero deaths.”
“Nothing is more crucial to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority than the safety of individuals who travel and work on our roads daily,” asserted New Jersey Turnpike Authority Executive Director James D. Carone. “We are pleased to have a place at the table with the Target Zero Commission to investigate methods to enhance the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and all New Jersey roadways even further.”
“DVRPC is thrilled to participate in the New Jersey Target Zero Commission and collaborate with state agencies to advocate for data-backed infrastructure enhancements with an emphasis on access, equity, and mobility for everyone,” expressed Ariella Maron, Executive Director of the Delaware River Valley Planning Commission. “With the aim of zero fatalities and severe injuries by 2040, and the commitment to adopt the Safe System Approach, state leaders are responding to the demand for improved traffic safety for all users and modes. We anticipate working collectively towards our mutual safety objectives.”
“We’ve been collaborating with the counties and municipalities in our region to incorporate the safe system approach into our planning activities and identify ways to enhance safety for all travelers,” noted David W. Behrend, Executive Director of the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. “I look forward to collaborating with the Commission to advance these initiatives and eventually achieve our common goal of zero traffic fatalities and severe injuries.”
“SJTPO is privileged to serve as one of 13 members of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission (Bill A1476/S361). The approval of the Bill will be transformative in fostering cooperation across the State as we all strive towards the shared objective of ensuring everyone arrives home safely each day,” stated Jennifer Marandino, Executive Director, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization. “The South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization has a long-standing reputation for promoting traffic safety through educational initiatives and transportation planning. SJTPO has the distinction of being the first Metropolitan Planning Organization in the State to lead the development of Countywide Local Road Safety Plans. These plans suggest projects and behavioral strategies aimed at decreasing serious injuries and fatalities on the county and municipal roadway network within the region.”
“I am eager to convey my strong support for the enactment of A1476/S361 upon its signing by Governor Murphy,” expressed Essex County Executive Brendan Gill. “This groundbreaking legislation is a testament to the tireless efforts, dedication, and vision of the bill’s proponents, our Governor, and the innumerable advocates who worked diligently to bring this to fruition. Their combined efforts have resulted in a vital change that will positively influence lives throughout our state. I commend Governor Murphy for his leadership, the legislators for their dedication to advancement, and every advocate whose voices and actions helped shape this success. Together, we have illustrated the power of collaboration and the significance of prioritizing the needs of our communities. This is a victory for all of New Jersey, and I anticipate witnessing the transformative advantages this legislation will deliver.”
“I commend Governor Murphy’s leadership in enacting this vital road safety legislation, as any roadway fatality that could have been avoided is intolerable. I am eager to work with the Murphy administration as we execute Vision Zero strategies in Hudson County,” added Hudson County Executive Craig Guy.
“After collaborating with legislators for over two years, it’s such a relief to see the NJ Target Zero Commission bill finally become law. Knowing that my sorrow has been transformed into something that could save numerous lives fills me with a sense of optimism,” noted Sangeeta Badlani, Founder of Nikhil Badlani Foundation, Families for Safe Streets NJ, and Co-Founder of the Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “New Jersey is now leading the way in safety policy across the United States. This statewide Commission and Action Plan may not bring back the loved ones we’ve lost, but it signifies a vital step toward a future where roadways are safer, and families are spared from experiencing similar heartache.”
“I don’t want to witness any other families endure the loss that we had to face when our son Nikhil was killed,” stated Sunil Badlani, Founding Member of Nikhil Badlani Foundation and Families for Safe Streets NJ. “This Commission must formulate an action plan to tackle the avoidable loss of 600-700 New Jerseyans each year. Together, we must forge a future where every journey is secure, and no life is lost needlessly on our roads.”
“New Jersey now possesses a clear ambition: ‘target zero.’ By 2040, not a single more fatality on our roads, not another tragic statistic, not in our state,” asserted Jim Hunt, Co-Founder of the Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “It is heartbreaking that today any of us could be the next victim, regardless of how we travel. The individuals who have perished, leaving too many behind, are a painful element of a larger narrative. Each day sees near misses or crashes that go unrecorded, resulting in significant injuries. The Vision Zero NJ Alliance will assist in every possible manner to eliminate this road violence and calls upon the Target Zero Commission to commence its work without delay.”
“New Jersey has taken a pivotal step towards safeguarding all road users, especially the most at-risk: individuals walking, cycling, and rolling,” remarked Debra Kagan, Executive Director, New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition and Co-Founder of the Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “This historic piece of legislation, the first of its kind in the nation, is the culmination of years of advocacy and effort from thousands of safety proponents, community organizations, state entities, and local authorities. The Commission can now undertake the bold measures necessary to ensure our streets are safe for everyone and end the traffic violence that has devastated our communities and families.”
“With the Target Zero Commission, New Jersey is establishing a new gold standard for other states – uniting thirteen agencies with a statewide mission to safeguard all road users and eradicate the carnage on our streets once and for all,” commented Corey Hannigan, Active Transportation Program Manager, Tri-State Transportation Campaign and Chair of Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “What this conveys to the families of victims is – we see you. We hear you. We acknowledge that the current situation is unacceptable, and we are prepared to enact change so that no one else suffers these avoidable tragedies.”
“Eva, my cherished wife for sixty years, was killed just a block from our residence while crossing the street in the crosswalk by a teenage driver,” declared Sandor Barcza, Families for Safe Streets NJ. “That driver faced no repercussions. We need the Target Zero Commission outlined in this legislation to identify ways to halt the epidemic of traffic violence.”
“My 22-year-old brother, Damian Baranowski, was cycling when he was killed on June 29th, 2024. The New Jersey Target Zero Commission could have preserved his life,” noted Karolina Baranowski,Families for Safe Streets NJ. “This legislation will safeguard numerous lives and avert future families and loved ones from enduring the unbearable sorrow of tragic loss.”
“With one of the highest pedestrian fatality statistics in the nation, New Jersey is facing a devastating safety crisis that impacts families and communities throughout the state,” stated Zeke Weston, New Jersey Future. “New Jersey Future sincerely values Governor Murphy’s direction in enacting the Target Zero Commission Bill. This crucial measure brings us nearer to establishing safer, more inclusive communities—where every New Jerseyan, encompassing older adults and persons with disabilities, can walk and bike through their neighborhoods with assurance, respect, and calmness.”
“The creation of this commission signifies an essential advancement toward constructing safer streets for all New Jersey inhabitants, complementing the ongoing endeavors of Transportation Management Associations (TMAs) like EZ Ride that are devoted to enhancing cycling and pedestrian safety in the state,” remarked Krishna Murthy, President & CEO, EZ Ride. “This legislation reflects a promise to prioritize fair, data-informed strategies aimed at eradicating traffic deaths and severe injuries by 2040, ensuring safer roads for everyone. On behalf of EZ Ride and all the TMAs in New Jersey, I commend the formation of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission.”
“The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia celebrates the passage of the NJ Target Zero Bill, a significant stride towards abolishing traffic fatalities and securing safer roads for all. The signing of this bill serves as a poignant reminder of our cherished colleague and fellow cyclist, Andrea Gonzalez, who was tragically taken by a driver in Cherry Hill, NJ, in October 2023,” expressed Christopher D. Gale, MPA, Executive Director, Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. “Her passing and the many other lives lost due to collisions with vehicles propel us to keep this urgent issue at the forefront, and we are devoted to collaborating with New Jersey legislators to achieve zero deaths in our transportation network.”
“This is a remarkable day when we can all unite and advocate for those who can no longer be here, like my husband Tim and our 5-year-old daughter Bridget, who were killed by a drug-impaired driver,” expressed Pam O’Donnell of Families for Safe Streets/The Catch You Later Foundation. “When we all collaborate and engage in an open dialogue, we can achieve remarkable changes. I have faith that this committee will do just that. It is my aspiration that NJ can be a model with this bill; one death is too many.”
“Traffic fatalities are among the most challenging incidents any first responder will encounter in their careers. I have lost many nights of sleep over the trauma I have witnessed, and I firmly believe that no one should lose a loved one to violence on our roads,” stated Stephen Dunn, Firefighter EMT, Rescue Co. 1, Elizabeth, NJ. “The Target Zero Commission marks the initial step in a long road toward extinguishing the epidemic of death on our streets and relieving first responders of the heavy burden we have been tasked to mitigate for far too long.”
“The establishment of the Target Zero Commission represents a pivotal advancement toward a safer future for the residents of New Jersey. We applaud the Vision Zero New Jersey Alliance and the leaders who have taken courageous steps to prioritize safety for all,” expressed Dennis Markatos-Soriano, Executive Director of the East Coast Greenway Alliance. “This initiative closely aligns with our mission at the East Coast Greenway Alliance, which aims to develop secure and accessible routes for active transportation and recreation throughout the Garden State and beyond.”
“The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey is thankful to Governor Murphy for enacting this essential legislation into law. As an organization committed to brain injury prevention, we actively advocate for policies that uphold public safety,” stated Wendy Berk, CEO, Brain Injury Alliance of NJ. “We take pride in having supported this bill throughout the legislative journey and remain dedicated to its objective of eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. Our initiatives will persist in focusing on ensuring safer roads for everyone. The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey commends the efforts of Families for Safe Streets and acknowledges that the remembrance of their loved ones will play a vital role in saving lives.”
“2024 was an especially fatal year for New Jersey as traffic deaths surged by 15% and pedestrian fatalities by 33%,” noted Zoe Baldwin, VP of State Programs for Regional Plan Association. “RPA is delighted to join Governor Murphy as he initiates this groundbreaking effort that acknowledges traffic safety as a public health issue that cannot be resolved by the Department of Transportation alone. With 13 state agencies now collaborating and tasked with developing a comprehensive, data-informed action plan, New Jersey has not only committed to abolishing roadway fatalities by 2040, it has established a robust framework to make that happen.”
“The National Safety Council applauds New Jersey’s trailblazing legislation establishing the Target Zero Commission, showcasing the state’s strong dedication to keeping all road users—whether driving, cycling, or walking—safe,” expressed NSC President and CEO Lorraine Martin. “We are eager to partner with the state to achieve our shared objective of eliminating preventable injuries and fatalities on our roads.”
“Vision Zero is more than merely creating a commission—it’s about changing a mindset and transforming transportation to make it safer to navigate New Jersey. We need a vision wherein there’s fair treatment—and safety—for all active transportation modes and where walking, biking, mass transit, and driving are granted equal precedence,” stated Doug O’Malley, Director of Environment New Jersey. “Transforming transportation means more bicycle buses, safer sidewalks, and access to transit that will create safer mobility and follow the trailblazed by Hoboken on Vision Zero. We express our gratitude to Governor Murphy for signing this legislation into law and commend the prime sponsors Sen. Diegnan and Asm. Karabinchak for turning this bill into reality.”
“In 2024, there were 691 fatalities on our roadways—an intolerable figure,” stated Lauren Paterno, Senior Government Affairs Advisor, AAA Clubs of New Jersey. “S361/A1476, sponsored by Senator Diegnan and Assemblyman Karabinchak, will assist government agencies and the wider traffic safety community in collaborating to ensure our transportation system is as safe as possible for every roadway user. AAA commends the Governor for enacting this crucial legislation, which will diminish deaths and injuries on New Jersey roads.”
“Aiming to eradicate traffic fatalities by 2040 isn’t merely a target—it’s a commitment to valuing every life. By enacting this bill, New Jersey asserts its leadership in traffic safety,” expressed Leigh Ann Von Hagen, Executive Director, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University. “This legislation strengthens New Jersey’s resolve to measurable goals and accountability which—along with collaboration on research and actionable strategies at every level—creates a future where safeguarding the most vulnerable individuals on our roads and saving lives is attainable.”
“This is a crucial advance toward securing safer roads for everyone,” stated Alex Ambrose, Policy Analyst at New Jersey Policy Perspective. “By enacting this law, Governor Murphy has set New Jersey on a course toward eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries for drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. It falls upon lawmakers, NJ DOT, and all stakeholders to unite to transform the Commission’s recommendations into tangible actions.”
Every road fatality is avoidable — and this new legislation takes us a step nearer to making that a reality.”
“Asbury Park Complete Streets Coalition commends the enactment of this courageous law, which will usher in the implementation of road safety strategies to avert collisions, injuries, and safeguard the lives of at-risk road users: anyone outside a vehicle, and guarantee safety for motorists themselves,” stated Polli Schildge, Founding Member and Director, Asbury Park Complete Streets Coalition. “Collisions, injuries, and deaths are a public health emergency, influencing everyone, especially communities such as those in Asbury Park, where numerous residents of all ages depend on walking and rolling for everyday transportation. The enactment of the New Jersey Target Zero Bill demonstrates a dedication to ensuring safe, equitable access for all on New Jersey’s streets and roads.”
“The formation of New Jersey’s Target Zero Commission signals a significant change toward regarding every traffic death as avoidable, not predetermined,” mentioned Johan Andrade, President, Hudson County Complete Streets. “We have already witnessed the life-preserving triumph of Vision Zero initiatives in Hoboken and Jersey City, where thorough safety protocols have significantly decreased severe crashes. This statewide commission will assist in expanding these successful techniques throughout New Jersey, guaranteeing that everyone – whether on foot, cycling, using public transport, or driving – can arrive at their destination unharmed.”
“New Jersey’s pledge to eradicate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2040 will advantage all New Jersey residents, especially those walking and cycling in cities like Trenton, who are disproportionately affected by traffic-related violence,” expressed Sonia Szczesna, Trenton Cycling Revolution. “Every individual on our streets deserves to arrive home safely each day, and Trenton Cycling Revolution eagerly anticipates continuing to collaborate with residents, advocates, and lawmakers to achieve this objective collectively.”
“SafeStreetsJC has promoted the goal of zero traffic fatalities for over a decade and rejoices in New Jersey’s acceptance of this long-desired, life-preserving commitment,” stated James Lee, Trustee, Safe Streets Jersey City. “Our zero-death achievement in Jersey City demonstrates that change is feasible, but we must bear in mind that this is merely the commencement of our mission; genuine advancement demands action, perseverance, and accountability – let us honor the lives lost and summon the bravery to remain steadfast as we embark on this significant shared state initiative to reimagine our roadways for secure travel for all.”
“The enactment of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission into law today brings us closer to the ultimate objective of eradicating fatalities & severe injuries for ALL road users because ZERO is the sole acceptable figure,” commented Wendy Kukowski, Families for Safe Streets NJ, whose life partner, Oscar Zanoni, was tragically killed on Jan. 3, 2020.
“Bike Hoboken extends gratitude to Governor Murphy and the state legislature for establishing the Target Zero Commission, a vital stride toward safer streets for everyone,” noted Andrew Wilson, Executive Director of Bike Hoboken. “By prioritizing the removal of fatal and serious injuries through thorough assessment and data-driven strategies, this initiative will contribute to realizing our vision of a safer, more inclusive transportation framework. Together, we can forge a future where cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists all navigate safely and with assurance throughout New Jersey.”
This page was created programmatically; to view the article in its original context, you can visit the link below:
https://nj.gov/governor/news/news/562025/approved/20250113a.shtml
and if you wish to have this article removed from our site, please contact us
