NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Almost $12 million is set aside in Newport News to invest in safety after several pedestrian-related crashes occurred in 2023.
Newport News City Council members approved the funding during their Tuesday meeting. Mayor Phillip Jones called the safety of all citizens a priority for the city.
"As I've always said 'show me the budget, and I will tell you what you prioritize in the city," Jones said.
All across Hampton Roads, more than 300 pedestrian-related crashes happened, resulting in more than 30 deaths. In Newport News, roughly 60 pedestrian crashes happened within the city limits, including three deaths.
The focus of the pedestrian safety funding will go toward improving 79 locations across Newport News. This includes crosswalks, signals, buttons, and ramps.
Craig Galant, director of engineering for Newport News, said many details are still being determined.
"Since we recently received authorization from City Council to execute a Project Administration Agreement with VDOT for the project we have not yet established a timeframe of when construction will begin or be completed," Galant said.
However, Galant said the city's taxpayers should not be footing the majority of the cost.
City leaders applied for the VDOT Highway Safety Improvement Program. This grant will reimburse the city, with 90% of the money coming from federal funds.
It's something Newport News residents said they widely support.
"I think that any amount that needs to be spent to save lives is worth it," said Donna Victorio, "I was hit by a car as a teenager, it's more common than you think."
City leaders said the process to bid for the project should start in the coming weeks.