Morris County leaders have approved a new strategy aimed at making local roads safer for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The Board of County Commissioners recently adopted a Local Safety Action Plan (LSAP), created in partnership with the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), to reduce crashes and open the door to major federal funding opportunities.
The LSAP is the result of more than a year of study and collaboration. Originally authorized in 2023, the initiative was funded through NJTPA and developed with extensive input from residents, municipal leaders, and transportation experts. The document is not a construction plan but rather a roadmap that helps Morris County and its 39 municipalities qualify for competitive federal grants, particularly from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program.
Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen H. Shaw, who also serves as secretary of NJTPA, explained the importance of the plan. He noted that while it does not dictate specific projects, it positions the county to secure billions in grant funding that can support safety improvements in towns across Morris County.
The plan highlights priority locations where serious crashes have occurred and suggests strategies that could be pursued in the future, from intersection redesigns to safer pedestrian crossings. Importantly, no changes will be implemented without close coordination with local municipalities and opportunities for residents to share feedback.
Work on the LSAP began in September 2024 and was informed by traffic data, crash statistics, and community surveys. Residents were encouraged to participate through online questionnaires and public meetings, while updates were shared on county websites and social media platforms. This process ensured that the voices of residents were incorporated alongside technical expertise.
The need for action is clear: nearly half of all fatal and severe injury crashes in Morris County between 2017 and 2021 happened on county and municipal roads. By focusing on local streets rather than just highways, the plan recognizes the daily risks faced by residents traveling close to home. The Federal Highway Administration has identified LSAPs as a proven approach for communities seeking to lower crash rates and improve roadway safety.
Community organizations have also voiced their support. Avenues in Motion, a nonprofit dedicated to sustainable and safe transportation in Morris County, praised the plan as a meaningful step toward reducing crashes and creating safer routes for everyone, whether they’re driving, walking, or biking.
The NJTPA, which oversees transportation planning across 13 counties in northern and central New Jersey, provided the funding for the initiative. This regional partnership strengthens Morris County’s position in securing federal resources and aligning local efforts with broader state and national safety goals.
Improving roadway safety doesn’t just benefit commuters—it strengthens local communities, supports economic vitality, and ensures safer travel for visitors exploring the county’s downtowns, parks, and cultural attractions. For those planning trips across Morris County and the rest of the state, helpful resources are available through Travel Planning.
