Champaign County residents are being asked to help make local roads safer by taking part in a public survey and interactive mapping project.
The Champaign County Engineer’s Office is updating its 2019 Transportation Safety Plan to identify today’s biggest roadway safety concerns and set priorities for the next several years. Officials say the updated plan will help guide future road improvements, safety programs and grant applications aimed at reducing serious crashes and saving lives.
The project is being funded through a grant, with a transportation consultant helping develop the updated plan. A stakeholder group made up of local governments, townships, emergency services, the Ohio Department of Transportation and other community partners is working together throughout the process. Public input will be collected through August, with the group scheduled to meet again in September. The updated plan is expected to be completed sometime in 2027 and will serve as a guide for the next five years.
According to the county, nearly 50 people each year have been killed or suffered life-changing injuries in traffic crashes in Champaign County over the past decade. Officials say reducing those numbers is the goal of the updated plan.
Residents are encouraged to share concerns about dangerous intersections, speeding, visibility issues or any other roadway safety problems they have noticed while driving, walking or biking in the county. The online survey takes about 10 minutes to complete, and an interactive map allows users to pinpoint specific locations that need attention.
Champaign County engineer, Steoehn McCall, gives more information on the safety plan, its benefits, and how the commmunity can get involved.
County officials say the previous Transportation Safety Plan has already led to several improvements, including better pavement markings, wider roads, upgraded signs and intersection safety projects. The plan also supported driver education and safety awareness programs in local high schools, giving young drivers additional training on safe driving habits. Other efforts included seat belt awareness programs and continued work on intersection improvements, including roundabouts and four-way stops.
As work continues on the updated plan, officials expect to focus on issues involving senior drivers, speed-related crashes and additional improvements at high-risk intersections.
Officials say having an up-to-date Transportation Safety Plan also helps Champaign County compete for state and federal grant funding for future safety projects.
Residents can participate in the survey and interactive map through August by visiting the Champaign County Transportation Safety Plan website HERE. Those without internet access can contact the project team to share their comments.
