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Governor Phil Murphy announced the creation of the Target Zero Commission on Monday (January 13) in Trenton, New Jersey, aiming to eliminate traffic fatalities in the state by 2040. The initiative comes in response to the rising number of traffic-related deaths, with over 690 fatalities reported last year. Murphy highlighted the tragic deaths of pro hockey player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who were killed by a driver while biking in Salem County last August, as a catalyst for the commission's formation.
The Target Zero Commission, led by the state's Transportation Commissioner, will focus on ensuring that walking, driving, or biking in New Jersey no longer results in fatalities. The commission will develop an action plan addressing engineering, education, and enforcement to improve road safety. It will also hold public hearings and create a portal for traffic safety data, identifying dangerous intersections and roadways.
The commission's formation follows advocacy from groups like the Vision Zero NJ Alliance, which has been pushing for legislative action to reduce traffic fatalities. The alliance emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, involving multiple state agencies, to tackle the issue effectively. The New Jersey Monitor reports that pedestrian deaths have risen nearly 40%, placing New Jersey among the top 20 states for pedestrian fatalities.
The bill to establish the commission has faced delays in the state Senate due to concerns from the Department of Transportation. However, advocates remain hopeful that the commission will be a significant step toward safer roads. The commission will report annually to the governor and Legislature, advising on transportation and infrastructure planning and encouraging local governments to develop their own "target zero" plans.
The tragic deaths of the Gaudreau brothers have underscored the urgency of addressing road safety in New Jersey. As reported by the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, the brothers were among the increasing number of cyclists killed by drivers, highlighting the need for immediate action to reverse the trend and ensure safer streets for all.