Fiscal Note
No fiscal impact.
Title
Proclaiming October as Pedestrian Safety Month and October 15, 2025, as White Cane Safety Day in the City of Madison.
Body
WHEREAS, on October 6, 1964, the United States Congress designated October 15 of each year as White Cane Safety Day; and,
WHEREAS, in 2020, the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration designated October of each year as Pedestrian Safety Month; and,
WHEREAS, safe, accessible streets are essential for the well-being of all residents, including children, older adults, and people with disabilities; and,
WHEREAS, thousands of Wisconsinites, including over 100,000 with vision loss, rely on sidewalks, curb ramps, accessible pedestrian signals, white canes, and service animals to navigate public spaces safely; and,
WHEREAS, Wisconsin's White Cane Law requires that motorists come to a full stop before approaching closer than 10 feet to a pedestrian who is using a white cane or service animal; and,
WHEREAS, greater awareness of the White Cane Law leads to safer, more attentive driving in general, enhancing the safety of all pedestrians, including children, elders and people with disabilities; and,
WHEREAS, communities have the opportunity to implement many proven features to enhance the safety of all pedestrians, including sidewalks, accessible pedestrian signals, curb ramps, high visibility crosswalks, traffic calming, and accessible design;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Common Council do hereby proclaim October as Pedestrian Safety Month and October 15, 2025, as White Cane Safety Day in the City of Madison and acknowledge the importance of pedestrian safety year-round.