ABQ Times

The recent episode of the podcast "It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science" delves into the topic of road safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. The episode, titled "Exploring road safety on two feet," discusses the rising fatalities among these groups and potential solutions.

Nick Ferenchak, an associate professor at The University of New Mexico and director of the Center of Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety, highlighted that despite a preference for driving, many Americans fall victim to vehicular accidents. He stated, “About 95% of people in Albuquerque drive to work, and we see similar numbers for a lot of cities across the U.S.” He emphasized that pedestrian fatalities are significant: “...about forty thousand Americans are killed every year… that’s the number one killer of young and middle-aged Americans.”

Ferenchak pointed out that while bicyclists often receive more attention due to their advocacy efforts, pedestrian safety is equally crucial. He remarked, “It’s kind of funny because if you get into the bicycle world there’s a lot of really passionate advocates... But for pedestrians, everyone is a pedestrian.”

In discussing infrastructure challenges in rural New Mexico, Ferenchak noted how state highways often run through small communities without appropriate design changes. He explained, “The issue is that when those rural highway roads pass through a developed area... fundamentally, the design doesn't change… the speed does.”

To address these issues, new technologies like hybrid beacons are being developed. These devices alert drivers when pedestrians are crossing. Ferenchak described them as follows: “A pedestrian hybrid beacon... flashes yellow as a warning to motorists ‘Hey there’s a pedestrian crossing’ and it turns red and they should be able to safely cross the road.’”

Efforts to rethink infrastructure in New Mexico continue with projects led by the Department of Transportation aimed at improving road safety.

The podcast can be accessed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or other platforms. More information about the show is available at podcast.unm.edu.