Madison Reporter

The City of Madison is set to commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims on November 17 by installing a memorial display and holding a press conference. The initiative aims to honor those who have lost their lives due to traffic violence on Madison streets, with 71 fatalities recorded over the past five years.

Wendi Dwyer, representing the Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired, shared her perspective: “Everyone is a pedestrian, even if it’s just to cross a parking lot. Drivers are just pedestrians behind the wheel. Paying attention and following the rules keep everyone safe.” Dwyer sustained life-threatening injuries in 2023 after being struck by a vehicle in Madison.

The memorial will be located at Olin Park near John Nolen Drive and Lakeside Drive. It will feature 71 red poppies, a white bicycle, and white shoes symbolizing the lives lost. A press conference is scheduled for November 15 at 10:30 a.m. at this site to raise awareness about Madison's Vision Zero goal—eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2035.

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway will join city staff and community members to discuss key projects aimed at achieving this goal. These include the John Nolen Drive Reconstruction project, which will incorporate safety features for all users, and the "20 is Plenty" initiative designed to improve neighborhood safety by reducing speed limits.

“Madison streets need to be safe for everyone. It’s not only the right thing to do, it’s how we build a more inclusive and welcoming community,” said Mayor Rhodes-Conway. “Today we honor lives lost and acknowledge that there is more to do to prevent these tragedies. I urge the community to join us in our efforts to reach our goal of zero traffic fatalities within our borders.”

The public and media are invited to attend the event, view the display throughout the week, and support Madison's commitment to road safety.