Millions Now Available to Improve Pedestrian Safety!
Caltrans has released the call for projects for Cycle 9 of Highway Safety Improvement Program. With an expected $140-160 million available, this is a huge opportunity for your community to improve pedestrian safety!
HSIP is a core state-administered federal-aid program with the goal of attaining a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries. Despite its highway moniker, HSIP funds are eligible for projects that improve the safety of users on any public roads, including non-State-owned roads and roads on tribal land. HSIP is a data-driven program where projects are assessed on a Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR).
With pedestrian fatalities stubbornly accounting for nearly 1 in 4 traffic fatalities in the state, California Walks is excited to see the state take concrete steps to address our pedestrian safety crisis in HSIP Cycle 9 by including a dedicated minimum $8 million set-aside for projects that enhance pedestrian crossings. Projects submitted under the Pedestrian Crossing Enhancements set-aside category are not required to submit a Benefit Cost Ratio, and these projects may include the following 100% federally-reimbursable improvements:
Installation of pedestrian countdown signal heads;
Installation of pedestrian crossings and signs;
Installation of advanced yield lines/signs; and
Installation of flashing beacons, including rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB).
Other crossing enhancements–such as accessible pedestrian signals–will be considered in the Pedestrian Crossing Enhancements set-aside as long as they are a small percent of the project cost. Please note that Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (also known as PHB or HAWK signals) are not eligible for the Pedestrian Crossing Enhancements set-aside but are eligible in the general application pool (Common BCR Application)
All cities, counties, and tribal governments in the State of California are eligible to apply. We urge agencies to apply for these funds to help address safety and improve walkability across the state and encourage you to contact Cal Walks if you need assistance navigating the application process.
Applications are due Friday, August 31, 2018. For more information, visit the Caltrans HSIP website.