Cheektowaga, N.Y. (WBEN) - Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz was joined by other county officials Tuesday to announce the launch of "StreetSmart Erie County", a year-round public health and safety campaign focused on reducing injuries and deaths on roads, sidewalks and parking lots across the county.
The initiative promotes safe behaviors among drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders.
From 2020 to 2023, Erie County recorded 210 fatal motor vehicle crashes and 46 pedestrian deaths. In the first half of 2025 alone, 118 crashes involving pedestrians, cyclists or skaters were reported, with more expected every week.
"StreetSmart Erie County" is a countywide call to action in response to these preventable tragedies.
"This year seems to have been a year with many more accidents on the roads, and those that specifically involve pedestrians, as well as those that are on the new electronic bikes and scooters. We're seeing some serious injuries and have unfortunately seen deaths of some of our young as a result of these accidents. And we want people to be reminded that whether you're behind the wheel of an automobile or the handlebars of a motorized bike or scooter or motorcycle, no matter what it is, or a pedestrian, you have to be careful of your surroundings," said Poloncarz on Tuesday. "You have to understand there are other people who are using the roads or sidewalks. This can be a life-or-death situation."
The campaign encourages drivers to stay focused, obey speed limits, stop for pedestrians, and never drive impaired.
Pedestrians and cyclists are also reminded to stay alert, wear reflective clothing, use sidewalks and crosswalks, and follow traffic laws. Bicyclists and scooter riders are urged to wear helmets and use lights and signals when riding.
The campaign is being led by the Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH), in partnership with the Department of Public Works and the Office for People with Disabilities. It includes ongoing public education, seasonal messaging and outreach through the ECDOH Community Wellness program to prevent road-related injuries and save lives.
Erie County welcomes the involvement of businesses, community groups and other municipalities in this project.
"Road Safety is a public health issue and an equity issue," said Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. "Safer streets, sidewalks and crosswalks reduce injuries, and give people the confidence to be active, especially on high capacity urban roads located near shops and businesses where people walk or bike. In these types of areas, we know that traffic calming measures make drivers slow down and make streets safer. When people feel safe walking or biking, it benefits not only their physical health, but also their mental health and well being. Being active outdoors helps reduce stress, improves mood and strengthens our connections to our community. So 'StreetSmart Erie County' reminds us all to walk smart, ride smart and drive smart. By staying alert, following the rules, looking out for one another, we can prevent injuries and build a healthier community together."
StreetSmart Erie County will share timely safety messages throughout the year, focusing on risks such as school bus and pedestrian safety in the fall, challenging winter road conditions, and impaired driving during the holidays. The campaign will also include community events, educational resources, and a strong presence on social media. Residents are encouraged to follow and share safety tips using the hashtag #StreetSmartErie.
This initiative builds on the work of the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council’s (GBNRTC) Roadway All-user Crash Elimination (RACE) Plan. GBNRTC released an extensive Plan in June 2025 primarily relating to regional infrastructure, opportunities to repair and enhance roadways and plan with safety in mind for all stakeholders.
Erie County supports elements of this plan related to education, awareness and equity.
Check out more information about "StreetSmart Erie County" here: