LA’s Vision Zero plan has been an abject failure. Despite efforts to eliminate traffic deaths by 2025, LA’s pedestrian fatalities climbed 6% last year. Injuries were up 35%. Now, a group of anonymous activists are taking matters into their own hands.
Crosswalk Collective LA has been painting crosswalks at high-needs intersections without the city’s approval. It’s an act of desperation, according to the group. They told NPR that they’ve tried for years to get crosswalks and other safe streets infrastructure through appropriate channels.
“At every turn, we've been met with delays, excuses, and inaction from our city government, as well as active hostility to safe streets projects from sitting councilmembers," the Collective added.
Both the Los Angeles Department of Transportation and Councilman Mitch O’Farrell, who represents one of the districts with a rogue crossing, say they have no record of any requests or interactions with the group.
Regardless, if you’ve ever tried to get a traffic safety installation from the city, it’s hard not to have sympathy for the mission.
The reaction on Twitter has been largely positive. Followers have suggested locations in need of an unofficial crosswalk. Crosswalk Collective said they're keeping a list of the intersections they receive for consideration.