The Vox article discusses the pervasive issues associated with state-managed urban roadways in the U.S., focusing particularly on Roosevelt Boulevard in Philadelphia, deemed the nation's most dangerous street for pedestrians, which illustrates the broader challenges of urban road safety and management. These roads, often designed decades ago for high-speed travel with minimal attention to pedestrian needs, continue to clash with modern urban demands for safety and accessibility. The article highlights a systemic problem where local governments lack the authority to make necessary changes to road design, resulting in high crash rates and dangerous conditions. While recognition of these issues is growing, effective collaboration between state and local agencies, supported by federal funding, is crucial for creating safer urban environments.

Key Points:

• Roosevelt Boulevard is labeled the most dangerous street in Philadelphia, resulting in numerous pedestrian deaths.
• Many dangerous urban roads in the U.S. are controlled by state DOTs, often leading to inadequate safety measures.
• Generally, state-managed roads pose greater crash risks despite comprising only 14% of urban road miles.
• Historical road designs prioritized vehicle speed over pedestrian safety, creating tensions between local and state priorities.
• Local initiatives to improve road safety often face resistance from state agencies focused on maintaining traffic flow.
• Federal funding and support could catalyze necessary improvements to urban roadways.
• Successful partnerships between state and local officials are essential for fixing outdated infrastructure issues.
• A paradigm shift is needed in state transportation policies to prioritize safety and functionality over mere speed.
  Link to Article