NEW JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — A bill signed into law by Gov. Phil Murphy Monday aims to cut down traffic fatalities in New Jersey.
Under Target Zero, the 13-member commission must propose an action plan within one year of the bill’s signing, with a chance for the public to provide feedback. The commission will collect traffic safety data for the public, including data on dangerous intersections and crash demographics, as well as provide data and resources to local municipalities to assist them in developing their own Target Zero plans.
When signing the bill, Murphy mentioned the deaths of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau, who were struck and killed while riding bikes in Salem County last year the night before their sister’s wedding.
“The Gaudreau family’s experience brought attention to the agony that every family in this room has felt firsthand,” Murphy said. “Their loved ones joined a club no one should ever have to be part of.”
State data shows traffic deaths rose 14% from 2023 to 2024. Pedestrian deaths rose by 32%. Murphy says the commission’s goal is zero deaths by 2040.
“The actions we take today will ensure that New Jersey families no longer have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to traffic fatalities,” Murphy said. “The commission will collaborate to prioritize safety and mobility, forging a clear path to making sure everyone, whether walking, biking, driving, or using public transit, can travel safely in New Jersey.”