This proclamation was adopted in October 2006 by the cities of Kansas City, MO; Lee’s Summit, MO; Raytown, MO; and Parkville, MO.

Pedestrian Safety Month Proclamation

Whereas, all people are pedestrians (which includes those of us who use a wheelchair or other mobility aid) and as pedestrians we have a right to safe streets in our communities; and

Whereas, thousands of Kansas City area residents experience the joys of walking as a source of health, fitness and recreation; and

Whereas, a lack of physical activity plays a leading role in rising rates of obesity, diabetes and other health problems and being able to walk to destinations offers an opportunity to build activity into daily routine; and

Whereas, walking is environmentally friendly, energy efficient and economical form of transportation; and

Whereas, walking allows the elderly and disabled to maintain their independence; and

Whereas, walking teaches children independence; and

Whereas, walking promotes informal interactions between people thereby strengthening and enriching our neighborhoods; and

Whereas, walking makes our city a vibrant and active place to live; and

Whereas, all citizens have the right to safe streets, sidewalks and paths in their neighborhoods, business centers, schools, parks and entertainment destinations; and

Whereas, 10 pedestrians have been killed on our roadways so far this year; and

Whereas, 54 pedestrians have been killed on our roadways since 2004; and

Whereas, 443 pedestrians were involved in car related crashes in 2004 in the Kansas City region; and

Whereas, people shall have a safe and accessible way to walk across the public right-of-way; and

Whereas, streets and roads will include safe, accessible, visible, comfortable and convenient marked crossings wherever possible; and

Whereas, pedestrians will have the highest priority in urban design, transportation planning and construction; and

Whereas, people shall be protected from vehicle threats by the adequate enforcement of traffic laws and through driver’s respect for crosswalk laws; and

Whereas, the Share The Road Safety Task Force and its member organizations have identified the need for pedestrian safety awareness and facilities improvements as a priority concern for the region; and

Whereas, the City of _______ has joined the Share The Road Safety Task Force in declaring October as Pedestrian Safety Month; and

Now Therefore, Be It Resolved that I, __________ , Mayor of ________ proclaim October 2006, “Pedestrian Safety Month” in _________ and encourage every citizen of our city to consider the safety and health of pedestrians today and everyday.