ODOT's Great Streets program is an essential investment for Oregon at a critical time. People are paying with their lives for our failure to provide safe streets for residents. According to NHTSA data, Oregon had the 10th highest traffic fatality rate in the U.S. in the last half of 2022. Pedestrian fatalities in Oregon were up 61% percent over the previous year in that time period and these conditions disproportionately affect BIPOC Oregonians and people living on low-incomes.

With an additional $100M in funding made possible via HB 3113, we can reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our most dangerous Orphan Highways while strategically investing in vibrant, safe, and sustainable main streets across Oregon. 

NOTE: The Street Trust will present the list of signers to the Oregon Legislature at the hearing on HB 3113, Thursday, April 6 at 5 PM. You can register online to submit testimony.

- Safety Improvements: Safety is a priority in ODOT's Strategic Action Plan (SAP) and Great Streets funding supports catalytic improvements on our most dangerous roads. By prioritizing the safety of all users, including people walking, biking, and driving, investments in Great Streets can help reduce the number of accidents and injuries on our roads. This means fewer emergency room visits and lower medical expenses, which can save money in the long run.

- Economic Benefits: By revitalizing streets and creating more walkable and bikeable communities, businesses can see an increase in foot traffic and revenue. This economic boost can result in increased tax revenue for the state and the creation of new jobs.

- Public Health: Creating more walkable and bikeable communities can have a positive impact on public health. By providing more opportunities for physical activity, the program can help combat the rising rates of obesity and related health problems. This can lead to lower healthcare costs and a healthier population, which can benefit the state in many ways.

- Climate Change: This program helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. By encouraging more people to walk, bike, and take public transit, Great Streets can help reduce the number of cars on the road and the amount of carbon emissions they produce. 

- Environmental Justice and Equity: Great Streets promote equity by improving access to transportation for underserved communities. Nearly 27% of Oregonians do not have a driver's license. By creating more walkable and bikeable streets, the program can help reduce transportation costs for low-income households and provide more transportation options for low-income people who may not own a car. This can help reduce transportation-related barriers to education, employment, and other opportunities while improving air quality in neighborhoods.