Major Safety Improvements on 37th Street in Savannah
In the beautiful city of Savannah, Georgia, the bustling 37th Street has earned a less than flattering reputation—it’s been labeled one of the most dangerous roadways in the area. With vehicle and pedestrian traffic flowing nearly around the clock, this critical corridor connecting I-16 to the neighborhoods near midtown Savannah has been a hotspot for accidents. City traffic data tells a concerning story: between 2018 and 2022, there were 970 crashes reported along 37th Street.
Concerns for Safety
This alarming number has raised the question of safety for many residents and visitors. Caila Brown, the Executive Director of Bike Walk Savannah, shared her insight, stating, “Once you get into the more developed areas of west 37th Street, it becomes more and more dangerous, and people are taking their lives in their hands.” It’s clear that the community is eager for change, and it looks like they are set to get just that.
Exciting News from the Federal Government
Recently, Senior White House Advisor Tom Perez joined local leaders to announce a fantastic opportunity for the city. The group highlighted a new federal grant worth $9.9 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation, aimed specifically at enhancing safety along 37th Street. In a time when the nation is focusing on improving its infrastructure, this funding couldn’t come at a better moment.
Perez noted how transportation priorities have shifted over the years. “A generation ago, transportation planners, when they were building roads, their number one concern was we want to get traffic through as fast as possible. That’s why we have so many fatalities in this area, and Savannah’s not alone,” he remarked. This reflects a broader movement to re-evaluate how roads are designed and who they serve.
Plans for Safety Enhancements
Looking ahead, plans are in motion to use the newly secured funds to upgrade 15 intersections along 37th Street. The upgrades will include improved signal timing, dedicated left-turn lanes, better sidewalks, and crosswalks. Additionally, the enhancements will extend bicycle lanes, aiming to create a safer environment for everyone who uses this busy street.
District 4 Alderman Nick Palumbo expressed his enthusiasm for the funding, explaining how it would contribute significantly to safety in the area. “It’s increasing visibility, but it’s also developing infrastructure to help slow automobile traffic down and helps auto drivers recognize when pedestrians and cyclists are crossing the street,” he said.
The City’s Contribution
As part of this initiative, Savannah city officials have committed to investing $2.4 million as a match for the federal grant. This collaborative effort demonstrates a true commitment to improving the safety and usability of 37th Street for all residents.
A Brighter Future
This evolution on 37th Street reflects a shift in how cities approach infrastructure, focusing on safety and accessibility as a top priority. As upgrades are planned and executed, the hope is that this once-dangerous corridor will transform into a much safer space for everyone who travels through Savannah.
It seems that a safer, more pedestrian-friendly Savannah is on the horizon, as community leaders and federal officials work together to turn this vision into reality.
