James M. Jeffords: “I would like to continue my discussion about key provisions of S. 1072. In particular, I would like to discuss some of…”

“I would like to continue my discussion about key provisions of S. 1072. In particular, I would like to discuss some of the bicycle and pedestrian provisions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,600 pedestrians and bicyclists were killed in traffic accidents in 2001. Tens of thousands more were injured in traffic accidents. In that same year, more than one-fifth of the bikers killed in traffic crashes were between the ages of 5 and 15, our Nation's children. Pedestrian and bicyclist fatality numbers have been slowly decreasing over the years, but one death is too many. We must improve our record. S. 1072 provides resources to help States address this safety problem. Our bill reauthorizes the bicycle/pedestrian provisions found in TEA-21. We recognize the importance of these provisions. More people walking and bicycling means fewer people in cars. It means healthier communities and a cleaner environment. We should promote it. Under our proposal, States may continue to use core program dollars to fund improvements for bicyclists and pedestrians. However, if we really want to encourage people to walk and bicycle around our communities, we must make these activities safer. Mr. President, 5,600 fatalities is an unacceptable number.…”