Improving safety on Philadelphia’s roads is just as important as preventing violent crime in its streets. Despite the promise of successive administrations to eliminate traffic deaths, the toll remains stubbornly high.

The Persistent Problem of Traffic Fatalities

A tracker created by the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia shows that traffic fatalities include pedestrians, motorcyclists, drivers, and their passengers. In 2025, the city recorded 100 traffic-related fatalities, a figure that remains elevated after a surge during the pandemic, similar to violent crime rates.

Changing Vehicle Trends and Increased Risk

The increasing size and weight of vehicles are contributing to the problem. Larger cars and trucks reduce pedestrian visibility and increase the severity of collisions, leading to more serious injuries and fatalities.

City Initiatives and Safety Cameras

Speed Cameras

The city has been proactively trying to make streets safer. Since 2020, the installation of speed cameras has increased, now present along Broad Street and in several school zones. City estimates suggest these cameras have contributed to a reduction in crashes.

Road Diets

Philadelphia is also implementing “road diets”—reducing the number of travel lanes on roadways to decrease speed—on its most dangerous streets.

Challenges to Implementation

Washington Avenue Proposal

State Rep. Jared Solomon is advocating for a revamp of Washington Avenue, framing it as an opportunity to create a more welcoming corridor that could attract businesses. However, Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson previously blocked a safety proposal along Washington Avenue, citing insufficient community support.

Castor Avenue Opposition

A group of residents is attempting to stop a similar plan for Castor Avenue, arguing it will cause a “traffic nightmare” by narrowing the road from four to three lanes. PennDot disagrees, estimating trip times will increase by, at most, 38 seconds. The plan aims to improve predictability and encourage walking and transit use.

The Need for Prioritization

Just as officials and communities support strategies to prevent violent crime, it is essential to embrace plans that prioritize road safety. A commitment to safer streets is crucial for the well-being of all Philadelphia residents.