Traffic violence remains a serious challenge across St. Louis, but crash data tells only part of the story. As communities invest in safer infrastructure, adopt new transportation policies, and work together to improve mobility, understanding the broader transportation system is more important than ever.
That’s why Trailnet has evolved its annual Crash Report into the State of Our Streets. This expanded publication examines crash trends alongside infrastructure projects, adopted plans, policy initiatives, and proven safety solutions shaping the future of transportation throughout St. Louis City and County.
“For years, our Crash Report helped us understand where traffic violence was happening,” said Cindy Mense, CEO of Trailnet. “The State of Our Streets takes the next step by showcasing what’s changing across our region and how we can work together to continue making our streets safer. We hope this report helps residents, advocates, and decision-makers turn data into action that makes our streets safer for everyone.”
Like our annual Crash Report, the State of Our Streets is designed to inform public policy, support transportation agencies, equip journalists, and empower residents to advocate for safer streets in their own communities.
The report is based on crash data from the Missouri Statewide Traffic Accident Records System, along with records obtained directly from the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Patrol Records Division.
Some of the key findings of this year’s report include:
- High speeds dramatically increase pedestrian fatality risk
- Gravois is once again listed as the most dangerous road in St. Louis City for vulnerable road users
- 56% of pedestrian crashes and more than 8 out of 10 pedestrian deaths in the City happen on arterials. Arterials are also where most pedestrian deaths occur in the County.
- The most dangerous pedestrian crashes in both the City and County occur just beyond intersections.
Getting involved and advocating to help push change can are important steps that all residents can take. Trailnet recommends the following:
- Attend public meetings for infrastructure projects to provide feedback whenever possible, and contact electeds about street and transportation infrastructure concerns.
- Advocate for the implementation of Calm Streets where appropriate
- Support bicycle network expansion
- Advocate for lower speed limits — tell your alderman or councilman you want lower speed limits, especially on arterials.
- Look for opportunities to help set priorities and get involved with the implementation of the City Department of Transportation
- Federal funds for bicycle and pedestrian safety are dwindling — advocate for more funding for those critical projects.
Looking for a specific section of the report? The table of contents is fully interactive —simply click any section title to jump directly to it.
For questions about the report, email planning@trailnet.org
