FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 13, 2025
Governor Murphy Signs Legislation Creating Target Zero Commission
Commission Aims to End Traffic Fatalities in New Jersey
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed A1476/S361 into law, creating the Target Zero Commission with the goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries in New Jersey by 2040. The 13-member group will consist of state officials from the Department of Transportation (DOT), State Police, along with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, regional transportation officials, and others who will work together to make New Jersey’s roads safer for drivers and pedestrians.
Governor Murphy was joined at the bill’s signing by Arland Macasieb, a cyclist and former professional triathlete who survived a life-altering crash with a car while riding his bike on a New Jersey road in 2021. Despite ongoing medical challenges due to his injuries from the crash, Macasieb continues to advocate for legislation that increases safety for cyclists and non-motorists.
“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. 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,” said Governor Murphy.
Traffic deaths and injuries have sharply increased in New Jersey. From 2023 to 2024, fatalities increased 14% and pedestrian fatalities increased 32%.
The Target Zero Commission will focus on data-driven strategies that prioritize roadway design, speed management, and safety for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. The Commission will advise the Governor, Legislature, and the DOT regarding policies, programs, research, and priorities that will aid in attaining the goal of eliminating traffic fatalities.
Under the law, the Commission is directed to propose an action plan within one year of the bill’s signing, with a chance for the public to provide feedback on the proposed plan. The Commission will also collect traffic safety data for the public, including data on dangerous intersections and crash demographics. Additionally, the Commission will provide data and resources to local municipalities to assist them in developing their own Target Zero plans.
“I share Governor Murphy’s vision that a stronger New Jersey includes making sure that everyone, whether walking, biking, driving or using public transit, can travel safely,” said DOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor. “The New Jersey Department of Transportation takes the responsibility of improving roadway safety very seriously and is committed to eliminating roadway fatalities. This commission will explore new ideas and technologies to create actionable strategies to address critical roadways safety issues in New Jersey.”
“The Target Zero Commission represents a powerful collaboration between state agencies, and the people of New Jersey to achieve a singular, life-saving goal: eliminating traffic fatalities,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “By leveraging data-driven strategies and prioritizing roadway design, speed management, and equity, we can ensure that every pedestrian, cyclist, and driver has a safer journey. Together, we’re not just creating safer roads—we’re building stronger communities and a brighter future for every resident of our state.”
“As the most densely populated state in the nation, it is critically important that New Jersey uses all available tools to ensure that pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers share the road safely,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “This bill creates a commission that brings together experts in transportation and traffic safety to advise lawmakers on the kinds of research and public policies that will eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries.”
“This bill exemplifies New Jersey’s strong commitment to traffic safety,” said Michael J. Rizol Jr., Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Our collective and collaborative efforts are essential in ensuring that New Jersey roads become even safer for all. I look forward to participating in this important work.”
“With the signing of this important legislation, the Motor Vehicle Commission looks forward to joining partners across government in developing a comprehensive plan to make transportation safer and more accessible for all New Jerseyans as part of the Target Zero Commission,” said Motor Vehicle Commission Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd. “Through collaborative efforts that push towards a ‘target zero’ future, we will work to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities, make our roads less hazardous, and develop policies and strategies that will better protect our residents as they go about their lives and navigate our state’s busy transportation system.”
The primary sponsors of the Target Zero Commission legislation are Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, Assemblyman John Allen, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, Senator Patrick Diegnan, and Senator Raj Mukherji.
“The New Jersey Target Zero Commission represents a collaborative effort to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on our state’s roadways,” said Senator Patrick Diegnan, Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “Out of incomprehensible tragedies, the grieving family members who have been supportive of this legislation continue to keep alive the indomitable spirit of their loved ones, turning heartbreaking loss into life-changing advocacy. They embody why making our roads safe for all road users must be a priority for our state. The Commission will create a clear and comprehensive plan to save lives and protect our communities with a goal of putting to an end the devastation traffic crashes cause.”
“The signing of the Target Zero bill represents a commitment to eliminating traffic fatalities and building safer communities for generations to come,” said Senator Raj Mukherji, Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “Today, New Jersey takes a bold step toward a future where every life on the road matters. No one should have to mourn the loss of a loved one to a traffic fatality.”
“New Jersey’s rise in traffic fatalities is a trend that we absolutely must reverse,” said Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak. “I can’t imagine the pain of losing a loved one in a senseless traffic accident. No parent should ever have to bury a family member because our roads are not safe. No family should endure the devastation caused by reckless drivers or dangerous roadways. These deaths are preventable, and we must take action to improve safety.”
“This legislation serves as a reminder that traffic fatalities can be avoided if the right resources are in place,” said Assemblyman John Allen. “The commission established by this bill will help us plan and allocate resources so that we can reach zero, and ultimately an end to pedestrian fatalities.”
“Bringing together traffic safety experts to explore ways to improve access, equity, and mobility is essential to achieving Target Zero,” said Assemblywoman Linda Carter. “As we work to make our roads safer, we must consider the needs of drivers, pedestrians, and everyone who uses our roadways.”
“The signing of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission into law marks a significant step in our efforts to enhance roadway safety and ultimately create safer communities for all,” said Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli. “This legislation will empower us to protect New Jersey’s road users through data-driven policies, infrastructure redesigns and educational initiatives, all aimed at achieving our goal of zero fatalities.”
“Nothing is more important to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority than the safety of those who travel and work on our roadways every day,” said New Jersey Turnpike Authority Executive Director James D. Carone. “We are gratified to have a seat at the table with the Target Zero Commission to seek out ways to make the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and all New Jersey roadways even safer.”
“DVRPC is excited to be a part of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission and work side-by-side with state agencies to promote data-supported infrastructure improvements with a focus on access, equity, and mobility for all,” said Ariella Maron, Executive Director of the Delaware River Valley Planning Commission. “With a goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries by 2040, and the promise to embrace the Safe System Approach, state leaders are meeting the need for improved traffic safety for all users and all modes. We look forward to working together toward our shared safety goals.”
“We’ve been working with our region’s counties and municipalities to integrate the safe system approach into our planning work and to identify ways to make travel safer for everyone,” said David W. Behrend, Executive Director of the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. “I look forward to working with the Commission to further these efforts and ultimately reach our shared goal of zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries.”
“SJTPO is honored to serve as one of 13 members of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission (Bill A1476/S361). The passage of the Bill will be monumental in fostering collaboration across the State as we all work towards the common goal of getting everyone home safely every day,” said Jennifer Marandino, Executive Director, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization. “The South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization has a long history of promoting traffic safety through educational initiatives and transportation planning. SJTPO is the first Metropolitan Planning Organization in the State to spearhead the development of Countywide Local Road Safety Plans. The plans propose projects and behavioral strategies aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities on the region’s county and municipal roadway network.”
“I am proud to express my strong support for the passage of A1476/S361 upon its signing by Governor Murphy,” said Essex County Executive Brendan Gill. “This landmark legislation is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and vision of the bill’s sponsors, our Governor, and the countless advocates who fought tirelessly to make this a reality. Their collective efforts have brought about a critical change that will positively impact lives across our state. I congratulate Governor Murphy for his leadership, the legislators for their commitment to progress, and every advocate whose voices and actions helped shape this achievement. Together, we have demonstrated the power of collaboration and the importance of prioritizing the needs of our communities. This is a victory for all of New Jersey, and I look forward to seeing the transformative benefits this legislation will bring.”
“I applaud Governor Murphy’s leadership in signing this crucial road safety legislation, as any roadway death that is preventable is unacceptable. I am looking forward to working with the Murphy administration as we implement Vision Zero strategies in Hudson County,” said Hudson County Executive Craig Guy.
“After working with legislators for over two years, it’s such a relief to finally see the NJ Target Zero Commission bill become law. Knowing that my pain has been transformed into something that could save hundreds of lives fills me with a sense of hope,” said Sangeeta Badlani, Founder of Nikhil Badlani Foundation, Families for Safe Streets NJ and Co-Founder of the Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “New Jersey is now at the forefront of safety policy in the United States. This statewide Commission and Action Plan won’t bring back the loved ones we’ve lost, but it does mark a crucial step toward a future where roadways are safer, and families are spared from enduring similar heartbreak.”
“I don’t want to see any other families suffer the loss that we had to suffer when our son Nikhil was killed,” said Sunil Badlani, Founding Member of Nikhil Badlani Foundation and Families for Safe Streets NJ. “This Commission must develop an action plan to address the preventable loss of 600-700 New Jerseyans each year. Together, we must create a future where every journey is safe, and no life is needlessly lost on our roads.”
“New Jersey now has a clear goal: ‘target zero.’ By 2040, not one more fatality on our roads, not one more sad statistic, not in our state,” said Jim Hunt, Co-Founder of the Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “It is tragic that today any one of us could be next no matter how we travel. And those who have died, leaving too many behind, are a painful part of a larger story. Every day there are near misses, or crashes not recorded, that cause serious injuries. The Vision Zero NJ Alliance will help in every way possible to end this road violence and urges the Target Zero Commission to begin its work immediately.”
“New Jersey has taken a crucial step towards protecting all road users, especially the most vulnerable: people walking, cycling, and rolling,” said Debra Kagan, Executive Director, New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition and Co-Founder of the Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “This landmark piece of legislation, the first of its kind in the nation, is the result of years of advocacy and hard work on the part of thousands of safety advocates, community groups, state agencies, and local officials. The Commission can now take the bold actions required to make our streets safe for all and put an end to the traffic violence that has brought devastation to our communities and our loved ones.”
“With the Target Zero Commission, New Jersey is setting a new gold standard for other states – bringing together thirteen agencies with a statewide goal to protect all road users and end the carnage on our streets once and for all,” said Corey Hannigan, Active Transportation Program Manager, Tri-State Transportation Campaign and Chair of Vision Zero NJ Alliance. “What this says to the victims’ families is – we see you. We hear you. We agree the status quo is unacceptable, and we are ready to make a change so that no one else has to suffer these preventable tragedies.”
“Eva, my beloved wife of sixty years, was killed just a block from our home while walking in the crosswalk by a teenage driver,” said Sandor Barcza, Families for Safe Streets NJ. “That driver faced no consequences. We need the Target Zero Commission called for in this legislation to determine how to stop the epidemic of traffic violence.”
“My 22-year-old brother, Damian Baranowski, was cycling when he was killed on June 29th, 2024. New Jersey Target Zero Commission could have saved his life,” said Karolina Baranowski, Families for Safe Streets NJ. “This bill will protect countless lives and prevent future families and loved ones from experiencing the unimaginable pain of tragic loss.”
“With one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the nation, New Jersey is confronting a heartbreaking safety crisis that affects families and communities across the state,” said Zeke Weston, New Jersey Future. “New Jersey Future deeply appreciates Governor Murphy’s leadership in signing the Target Zero Commission Bill into law. This important step brings us closer to creating safer, more inclusive communities—where every New Jerseyan, including older adults and people with disabilities, can walk and bike through their neighborhoods with confidence, dignity, and peace of mind.”
“The establishment of this commission represents a significant step towards creating safer streets for all New Jersey residents, complementing the ongoing work of Transportation Management Associations (TMAs) like EZ Ride that are dedicated to improving bicycle and pedestrian safety in the state,” said Krishna Murthy, President & CEO, EZ Ride. “This legislation demonstrates a commitment to prioritizing equitable, data-driven strategies aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2040, ensuring safer roads for all. On behalf of EZ Ride and all the TMAs in New Jersey, I applaud the establishment of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission.”
“The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia applauds the passage of the NJ Target Zero Bill, a significant step towards eliminating traffic fatalities and ensuring safer roads for all. The signing of this bill reminds us of our beloved colleague and fellow cyclist, Andrea Gonzalez, who was tragically killed by a driver in Cherry Hill, NJ, in October 2023,” said Christopher D. Gale, MPA, Executive Director, Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. “Her loss and the many other lives lost due to crashes with vehicles moves us to keep this urgent issue at the forefront and we are committed to working alongside New Jersey lawmakers to achieve zero deaths on our transportation network.”
“This is a beautiful day when we can all come together and work for those that are no longer here like my husband Tim and our 5-year-old daughter Bridget who were killed by a drugged driver,” said Pam O’Donnell of Families for Safe Streets/The Catch You Later Foundation. “When we all work together and have an open dialogue, we can move mountains. I trust this committee will do just that. It is my hope NJ can be an example with this bill, one death is too many.”
“Traffic fatalities are some of the most challenging calls any first responder will face in their career. I’ve lost many night’s sleep over the trauma I’ve borne witness to and believe that no one should lose a loved one to violence on our roads,” said Stephen Dunn, Firefighter EMT, Rescue Co. 1, Elizabeth, NJ. “The Target Zero Commission is the first step in a long journey towards ending the epidemic of death on our streets and relieving first responders of the terrible burden we have been tasked with mitigating for far too long.”
“The formation of the Target Zero Commission is a critical step toward a safer future for the people of New Jersey. We applaud the Vision Zero New Jersey Alliance and the leaders who have taken bold action to prioritize safety for everyone,” said Dennis Markatos-Soriano, Executive Director of the East Coast Greenway Alliance. “This effort aligns closely with our mission at the East Coast Greenway Alliance, which strives to develop safe and accessible routes for active transportation and recreation across the Garden State and beyond.”
“The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey is grateful to Governor Murphy for signing this vital legislation into law. As an organization dedicated to brain injury prevention, we actively advocate for policies that protect public safety,” said Wendy Berk, CEO, Brain Injury Alliance of NJ. “We are proud to have supported this bill throughout the legislative process and remain committed to its mission of eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. Our efforts will continue to focus on ensuring safer roads for all. The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey applauds the efforts of Families for Safe Streets and acknowledges that the memory of their loved ones will play a crucial role in saving lives.”
“2024 was a particularly deadly year for New Jersey as traffic deaths rose 15% and pedestrian fatalities by 33%,” said Zoe Baldwin, VP of State Programs for Regional Plan Association. “RPA is thrilled to join Governor Murphy as he enacts this groundbreaking initiative that recognizes traffic safety as a public health issue that cannot be solved by the Department of Transportation alone. With 13 state agencies now at the table and tasked with creating a comprehensive, data-driven action plan, New Jersey has not only committed to eliminating roadway fatalities by 2040, it has built a solid framework in which to make that happen.”
“The National Safety Council commends New Jersey’s landmark legislation establishing the Target Zero Commission, demonstrating the state’s strong commitment to keep all road users – whether driving, cycling or walking – safe,” said NSC President and CEO Lorraine Martin. “We look forward to partnering with the state to achieve our shared goal of eliminating preventable injuries and fatalities on our roads.”
“Vision Zero is more than just setting up a commission — it’s working to change a mindset and change transportation to make it safer to get around New Jersey. We need a vision where there’s equitable treatment — and safety — for all active transportation and where walking, biking, mass transit and driving are given equal precedent,” said Doug O’Malley, Director of Environment New Jersey. “Transforming transportation means more bike buses, safer sidewalks and access to transit that will make transportation safer and follow the path led by Hoboken on Vision Zero. We thank Governor Murphy for signing this bill into law and the work of prime sponsors Sen. Diegnan and Asm. Karabinchak to make this bill become a reality.”
“In 2024, there were 691 deaths on our roadways—an unacceptable number,” said Lauren Paterno, Senior Government Affairs Advisor, AAA Clubs of New Jersey. “S361/A1476, sponsored by Senator Diegnan and Assemblyman Karabinchak, will help government agencies and the broader traffic safety community work together to make our transportation system as safe as possible for all roadway users. AAA commends the Governor for signing this vital legislation, which will reduce deaths and injuries on New Jersey roads.”
“Eliminating traffic fatalities by 2040 isn’t just a goal—it’s a commitment to valuing every life. By signing this bill, New Jersey affirms its leadership in traffic safety,” said Leigh Ann Von Hagen, Executive Director, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University. “This legislation reinforces New Jersey’s commitment to measurable goals and accountability which—along with collaboration on research and actionable strategies at every level—creates a future where protecting the most vulnerable people on our roads and saving lives is within reach.”
“This is a critical step toward making our roads safer for everyone,” said Alex Ambrose, Policy Analyst at New Jersey Policy Perspective. “By signing this law, Governor Murphy has set New Jersey on a path toward eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries for drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. It’s up to lawmakers, NJ DOT, and all stakeholders to work together to turn the Commission’s recommendations into action. Every traffic death is preventable — and this new law brings us one step closer to making that a reality.”
“Asbury Park Complete Streets Coalition applauds the signing of this bold legislation, which will bring about implementation of road safety measures to prevent crashes, injuries, and save the lives of vulnerable road users: anyone outside of a car, and ensure safety for drivers themselves,” said Polli Schildge, Founding Member and Director, Asbury Park Complete Streets Coalition. “Crashes, injuries, and fatalities are a human health crisis, affecting everyone, and disproportionately communities like those in Asbury Park, where many residents of all ages must walk and roll for daily transportation. The signing of the New Jersey Target Zero Bill signals a commitment to provide safe, equitable access for everyone on streets and roads in New Jersey.”
“The establishment of New Jersey’s Target Zero Commission marks a crucial shift toward treating every traffic death as preventable, not inevitable,” said Johan Andrade, President, Hudson County Complete Streets. “We’ve already seen the life-saving success of Vision Zero programs in Hoboken and Jersey City, where comprehensive safety measures have dramatically reduced serious crashes. This statewide commission will help expand these proven strategies across New Jersey, ensuring everyone – whether walking, cycling, taking transit, or driving – can reach their destination safely.”
“New Jersey’s commitment to eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2040 will benefit every New Jerseyan, particularly those walking and biking in cities like Trenton, who are disproportionately impacted by traffic violence,” said Sonia Szczesna, Trenton Cycling Revolution. “Everyone on our streets deserves to get home safely each day, and Trenton Cycling Revolution looks forward to continuing working alongside residents, advocates, and policymakers to achieve this goal together.”
“SafeStreetsJC has advocated for zero traffic deaths for over a decade and celebrates New Jersey is embracing this long-awaited, life-saving pledge,” said James Lee, Trustee, Safe Streets Jersey City. “Our zero-death milestone in Jersey City proves change is possible, but we must remember this is just the beginning of the journey; real progress requires action, persistence, and accountability – let us remember the lives lost and have the courage to be unwavering as we embark on this important shared state project to reimagine our roadways for safe travel for all.”
“The signing of the New Jersey Target Zero Commission into law today brings us one step closer to the ultimate goal of eliminating fatal & serious injuries for ALL road users because ZERO is the only acceptable number,” said Wendy Kukowski, Families for Safe Streets NJ, whose life partner, Oscar Zanoni, was killed on Jan. 3, 2020.
“Bike Hoboken thanks Governor Murphy and the state legislature for establishing the Target Zero Commission, a critical step toward safer streets for everyone,” said Andrew Wilson, Executive Director of Bike Hoboken. “By prioritizing the elimination of fatal and serious injuries through comprehensive evaluation and data-driven solutions, this initiative will help achieve our vision of a safer, more inclusive transportation network. Together, we can create a future where cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers all move safely and with confidence across New Jersey.” |