South Charlotte Today

The City of Charlotte's Department of Transportation (CDOT) launched the TravelSafely App with a pilot project in South End.

The new app is designed to improve safety for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists by connecting users to an electronic network of intersection and crosswalk data, as well as to each other.

Features of the app include:

• Get ready for green – Notifies users when the light is about to turn green.

• Red light warning – Warns users approaching a red light if they are approaching the intersection too fast.

• Slow speed zone warning - Notifies users if they are traveling too fast in a slow speed zone.

• Cyclist ahead warning – Warns motorists if a cyclist is using the app on the road ahead.

• Pedestrian ahead warning – Notifies motorists of pedestrians using the app in the crosswalk ahead if it detects the motorist is not going to stop.

"We must work together to improve traffic safety and this app promotes connectivity to each other and to our surroundings," said Council Member Victoria Watlington. "The app is another tool that will help us improve safety for all people using our roads and I encourage everyone to download the app and use it in the South End pilot project area."

The app is part of the city's Vision Zero safety initiative that seeks to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries. All information shared on the app is anonymous and protected. 

"We are excited to incorporate TravelSafely in Charlotte," says Justin Carroll, deputy director of CDOT. "It will improve CDOT's use of cutting-edge technology and connect those who download the app to a network of traffic intersections, pedestrian beacons, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians."

CDOT has partnered with Charlotte Center City Partners to ensure residents and visitors in the South End area know about the opportunity to participate in the pilot, which will allow staff to evaluate and compare before and after crash data. Collaboration with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) was also vital in the implementation of the pilot project and will continue to be instrumental in making Charlotte streets safer for all.

"The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department works hand-in-hand with our partners at CDOT to address transportation safety and we are excited about the potential of the TravelSafely app to make the roads and sidewalks of South End safer places to walk, run, bike and drive," says CMPD Major Dave Johnson. "Leveraging technology is the future of traffic safety and piloting this app positions Charlotte at the cutting edge."

Residents are encouraged to download the app and take advantage of the benefits of the audible alerts within the South End pilot area through November 2023. The free app is available for download on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Use of the TravelSafely app provides supplemental information to enhance driving decisions while following the rules of the road. All travelers utilizing the app still need to remain alert and mindful of all responsibilities as a motorist, pedestrian, or bicyclist.

The City of Charlotte is excited about the innovative technology and eager to receive feedback from residents.

To learn more and provide feedback, visit PublicInput.com/travelsafelyclt or send an email to travelsafelyclt@PublicInput.com.

Residents may also join city staff this evening for a film screening of The Street Project, a new PBS documentary that examines transportation equity, safety and Vision Zero.

• Date: Nov. 10, 2022

• Time: 6:00 p.m.

• Location: Charlotte Urban Design Center, 1507 Camden Rd.

Original source can be found here.