ERIE COUNTY LAUNCHES "STREET SMART ERIE COUNTY" CAMPAIGN TO IMPROVE ROAD SAFETY AND SAVE LIVES

 Erie County officials gathered today (July 22), to announce StreetSmart Erie County, a year-round public health and safety campaign focused on reducing injuries and deaths on roads, sidewalks and parking lots across the county. The initiative promotes safe behaviors among drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders.

 

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein, Office of Health Equity Director Kelly Wofford, Department of Public Works Deputy Commissioner of Highways Karen Hoak and Office for People with Disabilities Executive Director Frank Cammarata at Appletree Business Park’s Park and Ride location in Cheektowaga.

 

From 2020 to 2023, Erie County recorded 210 fatal motor vehicle crashes and 46 pedestrian deaths. In the first half of 2025 alone, 118 crashes involving pedestrians, cyclists or skaters were reported- with more expected every week. StreetSmart Erie County is a countywide call to action in response to these preventable tragedies.

 

“News stories about traffic-related injuries are all-too-familiar; we are calling on everyone to be StreetSmart,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. “Whether you are walking, biking or driving, we all have a role in making our roads safer.”

 

The campaign is led by the Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) in partnership with the Department of Public Works and the Office for People with Disabilities. It includes ongoing public education, seasonal messaging and outreach through the ECDOH Community Wellness program to prevent road-related injuries and save lives. Erie County welcomes the involvement of businesses, community groups and other municipalities in this project.

 

“Road safety is a public health issue and an equity issue,” said Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. “This campaign aims to keep improving the culture around road safety. As individuals, we should be able to walk, jog, roller skate and bike in public spaces for our own physical fitness and mental health well being. And we all benefit from better safety practices and a safer built environment. Well-maintained sidewalks, clearly marked crosswalks, and accessible bike lanes lead to better health outcomes by reducing injuries and encouraging walking, biking and physical activity.”

 

“Each day we have dozens of DPW workers on the road. Just as we are committed to their safety while working, we need drivers and pedestrians to slow down when approaching our crews,” said William Geary, Erie County Commissioner of Public Works. “We are committed to working with our county partners to raise awareness and support safer streets for everyone in Erie County.”

 

The campaign encourages drivers to stay focused, obey speed limits, stop for pedestrians, and never drive impaired. Pedestrians and cyclists are reminded to stay alert, wear reflective clothing, use sidewalks and crosswalks, and follow traffic laws. Bicyclists and scooter riders are urged to wear helmets and use lights and signals when riding.

 

Frank Cammarata, Director of the Office for People with Disabilities, highlighted the need for accessible roadways. “Safe streets and sidewalks are essential for everyone, especially for those with disabilities or who use personal mobility aids,” said Cammarata. “When we plan with accessibility in mind, we create a safer and more functional environment for all and reduce the potential for injuries and accidents.”

 

StreetSmart Erie County will share timely safety messages throughout the year, focusing on risks such as school bus and pedestrian safety in the fall, challenging winter road conditions, and impaired driving during the holidays. The campaign will also include community events, educational resources, and a strong presence on social media. Residents are encouraged to follow and share safety tips using the hashtag #StreetSmartErie.