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A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING NOVEMBER 17, 2024, AS “WORLD DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR ROAD TRAFFIC VICTIMS” IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA
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WHEREAS, Each year, traffic crashes claim many lives, surpassing 1.19 million people globally in 2023, including over 40,000 people in the U.S. and more than 1,076 Ohioans; and
WHEREAS, Franklin County experienced a significant number of pedestrian- and cyclist-involved crashes from 2018 to 2023, averaging more than one per day, highlighting the urgent need for increased road safety awareness; and
WHEREAS, Each life lost in a traffic crash represents someone’s family member, friend, or neighbor, and their absence leaves a lasting impact; and
WHEREAS, The United Nations established the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims in 2005, observed on the third Sunday of November, honoring those lost and acknowledging the toll on survivors and communities; and
WHEREAS, According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, negative effects from the transportation system disproportionately impact vulnerable groups, including low-income residents, minorities, children, people with disabilities, and older adults; and
WHEREAS, Inadequate infrastructure and poor driving practices can make active transportation unsafe, leading to higher rates of pedestrian and cyclist collision, with road traffic injuries remaining the leading cause of death for people aged 5 to 29; and
WHEREAS, The City of Gahanna remains committed to creating safer streets through infrastructure improvements, equitable policies, and community initiatives that prioritize the safety of all road users.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT JOINTLY RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL AND PROCLAIMED MAYOR OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. That City Council and the Mayor join in designating November 17, 2024, as World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, in solemn recognition of those who have lost their lives or been injured on our roads.
Section 2. That City Council and the Mayor urge the community to reflect on the lives lost and renew their commitment to safer driving and road safety advocacy.
Section 3. That City Council and the Mayor extend their deepest sympathies to the families affected by road traffic tragedies and affirm their dedication to safer streets.
Section 4. That this Resolution shall take effect immediately, in memory of lives lost and with the goal of preventing future tragedies.