Bike/Walk Central Florida (BWCF) is proud to share the highlights and accomplishments of our year in our 2023-2024 Impact Report. This year was a testament to the power of collaboration, advocacy, and community-driven efforts to create safer, more accessible streets for everyone. Here’s a look at what we’ve achieved together and how we’re shaping the future of Central Florida’s streets.
Key Accomplishments
Expanding Reach Through Best Foot Forward
BWCF’s Best Foot Forward pedestrian safety program expanded into Volusia, Brevard, and Marion Counties, doubling its reach and impact. With the support of FDOT’s Target Zero initiative, this expansion brought much-needed safety measures to additional communities, reflecting our commitment to reducing pedestrian fatalities and injuries across the region.
This expansion has already delivered measurable results. Enforcement operations as part of Best Foot Forward led to a 15% increase in driver yield rates (DYR) at monitored crosswalks, underscoring the power of education and enforcement in fostering safer streets.
Across all counties participating in the Best Foot Forward program, the collective impact includes:
- 23 crosswalks improved DYR 11% on average through enforcement.
- 8 crosswalks saw a 25% average DYR improvement from engineering, including 2 Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons and a Leading Pedestrian Interval.
- 11 crosswalks achieved an 18% DYR boost from combined engineering and enforcement, with enhancements like stop bars and Stop Here for Pedestrians signs.
Advocating for Change
As key stakeholders in Central Florida’s Vision Zero efforts, we played a vital role in developing comprehensive safety action plans with MetroPlan Orlando. These plans for Orange, Seminole, and Osceola Counties lay the groundwork for safer streets and more transportation options for everyone.
Engaging the Community
BWCF’s events and programs reached thousands of residents:
- Bike/Walk Kids Program: Distributed 1,392 helmets and 237 bicycles to children, empowering them with the tools and knowledge to navigate streets safely.
- Volunteer Engagement: Over 100 dedicated volunteers joined BWCF to support our mission of safer streets. Their efforts were vital across more than 20 Bike/Walk Kids events, the annual BIKE 5 ride, and numerous advocacy campaigns.
- Countless Lives Impacted: Through advocacy, education, and engineering, we’ve made streets safer for children, seniors, families, and neighbors across Central Florida.
Expanding Leadership for Greater Impact
This year, BWCF welcomed new team members and board members who bring diverse expertise and fresh perspectives to our mission. Their contributions strengthen our capacity to advocate for safer streets, engage with the community, and lead meaningful initiatives across the region.
Looking Ahead, Our Vision for the Future
With Central Florida adopting Vision Zero goals, BWCF is here to support our community’s goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries on our roadways. As our region grows, so does the urgency to create safer, more inclusive transportation systems. Our priorities for the upcoming year include:
- Strategizing our Advocacy Efforts: With more communities embracing safe streets, our advocacy efforts become more focused on critical funding needs, supporting policy changes and improving communications across stakeholder groups.
- Fostering New Partnerships: Collaborating with local businesses, municipalities, and organizations to strengthen our impact.
- Youth Education: Targeting underserved youth and communities where children walk and bike to school, teaching them how to do so safely and lawfully.
Thank You for Your Support
The progress outlined in this report would not be possible without the dedication of our supporters, partners, and volunteers. Together, we’re building a safer, more connected Central Florida for everyone.
BWCF 2023-2024 Impact Report (Single-Page Scroll FINAL)-compressed
Join the Movement for Safer Streets
Creating safer, more connected communities requires the collective effort of advocates, supporters, and volunteers like you. There are many ways to support BWCF’s mission:
- Support Through Donations: Every contribution helps fund critical initiatives like helmet distributions, safety workshops, and advocacy campaigns.
- Volunteer Your Time: Help at events like bike rodeos, community workshops, or our annual BIKE 5 ride. Your hands-on support makes a lasting difference.
- Advocate for Change: Share our mission with your community, attend local meetings, and amplify the need for safer streets.
- By getting involved, you’re not just supporting BWCF—you’re helping to save lives, promote equity, and create a healthier, more vibrant Central Florida.
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