Jamaican-American Mayor Denise Grant of Lauderhill has been selected to participate in the 2025 Mayors Institute on Pedestrian Safety (MIPS), joining a group of 12 U.S. mayors dedicated to improving street safety in their communities.
The prestigious program, led by the Mayors Innovation Project and supported by AARP and Smart Growth America, aims to equip mayors with the tools, expertise, and support needed to address dangerous roadways and implement systemic, long-term safety improvements.
“Being selected for this year’s pedestrian safety cohort is a significant milestone for our City. It reflects our commitment to creating a safer environment for all residents and visitors. We are dedicated to prioritizing pedestrian safety, and with the support of this program, we will implement innovative strategies to enhance mobility and reduce accidents. Together, we can build a community where everyone can walk with confidence,” expressed Mayor Grant.
Over the next six months, the mayors will engage in both virtual and in-person programming, collaborating with national transportation experts and each other to tackle critical safety issues. Their work comes at a crucial time, as pedestrian fatalities continue to rise across the country—averaging 20 deaths per day due to vehicle collisions.
“Whether you’re a business owner or the parent of a young child, safety is absolutely fundamental to thriving communities,” said Beth Osborne, Director of Transportation for America, the transportation initiative under Smart Growth America. “Mayors are essential to this work, and we are eager to work with this year’s cohort to share and implement more of what we know creates safer, more vibrant communities for all.”
Participating mayors represent a wide geographic and political spectrum, from large urban centers to small cities. “Each brings a unique perspective and deep commitment to public safety,” said Katya Spear, Managing Director of the Mayors Innovation Project. “Together, we’ll support their work to make streets safer for everyone in their communities.”
In addition to Mayor Denise Grant, the cohort includes mayors from Alameda, CA; Brevard, NC; Everett, WA; Alton, IL; Tigard, OR; Superior, WI; Lansing, MI; Little Rock, AR; Lima, OH; Brockton, MA; and Williamsport, PA.
As pedestrian safety becomes an increasingly urgent issue, the mayors selected for this initiative are expected to lead the way in crafting practical, community-based solutions—both in their cities and beyond.
.){kind=link}