Cape Cod MPO adopts statewide 2024 safety performance targets consistent with Vision Zero goals

The Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization voted to adopt the Commonwealth’s statewide safety performance targets for calendar year 2024 after a presentation from the Cape Cod Commission’s senior transportation planner.

Dave Nolan reviewed statewide and regional crash trends and said the MPO traditionally follows statewide targets recommended by the Joint Transportation Committee. "The ultimate goal, in, you know, transportation safety is for Vision 0 to have no fatal crashes, injury crashes, or really any crashes on our roadways," Nolan said, noting that the MPO sets realistic short‑term targets that align with the state while pursuing grant opportunities such as Safe Streets for All to support local safety projects.

Nolan showed five‑year averages for the region, noting a COVID‑era uptick: "with 7 fatalities in 2019, that's sort of gone up with 12, 19, and 15 fatalities in the years 2020, '21, and '22." Members questioned seasonal crash patterns; Nolan said multiple factors — including lower traffic volumes that can lead to higher speeds and earlier darkness in off‑season months — affect trends.

Kevin Galligan moved to adopt the statewide targets on behalf of the MPO; Harold Mitchell seconded. A roll call vote of present members approved the motion.

Staff said adopting the statewide targets does not preclude the MPO from pursuing more aggressive regional or local initiatives; the targets provide a consistent baseline for reporting and for accessing state and federal safety program funds.