TITLE
A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING AUGUST 2024 AS SHARE THE ROAD AWARENESS MONTH IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA
BODY
WHEREAS, from 2018 - 2023, Franklin County, Ohio averaged nearly 460 pedestrian-involved crashes per year, or more than 1 pedestrian-involved crash per day, every day, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol; and
WHEREAS, from January 2019 to March 2024, Franklin County, Ohio averaged approximately 172 cyclist-involved crashes per year, or nearly one crash involving a bicycle every other day, as reported by the Columbus Dispatch on March 12, 2024;
WHEREAS, preventing pedestrian- and cyclist- involved traffic crashes within the City remain a priority for residents, public safety, and public officials; and
WHEREAS, the most common acute causes of pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities are drunk driving, speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving; and
WHEREAS, infrastructure that does not prioritize the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists also contributes to vehicle-involved pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities; and
WHEREAS, distracted driving is any activity that diverts one’s attention from driving, including talking or texting on a phone, or being preoccupied with other tasks - where the prevalence of electronic devices and the temptation to use them while driving have contributed to an increase in distracted driving-related crashes involving vulnerable users; and
WHEREAS, Pelotonia is an annual event that includes a weekend of cycling, entertainment and volunteerism to raise money for cancer research at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - The James Cancer Center and Solove Research Institute. According to Pelotonia, to date, the Pelotonia community has raised more than $283 million, and 100% of funds raised by participants are donated to cancer research, due to generous funding partners supporting operations; and
WHEREAS, Pelotonia’s various routes include portions of Gahanna, allowing the City to support and celebrate riders and creating responsibility to raise awareness for rider safety both within City limits and without; and
WHEREAS, the City encourages walking and biking and is continuing to prioritize investment in infrastructure and policy development and enforcement that supports pedestrian and cyclist safety; and
WHEREAS, “Share the Road” is a simple reminder that roads are for cars, non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians; and
WHEREAS, awareness of one’s surroundings, implementation of safe driving practices and cooperation from all road users will help preserve the public peace, health, safety and well-being of the City, reducing the number of fatalities and injuries on our roadways year-round.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. That this Council hereby designates August 2024 as Share the Road Awareness Month.
Section 2. That this Council encourages parents and guardians to lead by example, as well as talk with their young drivers about vehicle maintenance, driving with focus, and prioritizing safety of themselves and others.
Section 3. That this Council encourages cyclists, runners, and walkers of all ages to become familiar with rules of sharing the road and to be attentive while in roadways to minimize the risk of injury and death due to crashes.
Section 4. That This Council continues to recognize the importance of investment in infrastructure that encourages non-vehicle modes of transportation and supports the prioritization of investment in multipurpose trails, sidewalks, and other infrastructure to support the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Section 5. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect at the earliest period allowed by law.