At the 2019 MACo Winter Conference session, “No More Deaths: Vision Zero and Maryland’s Mission for Roadway Safety,” attendees learned about the issue of traffic congestion in Maryland and what options and solutions can elevate the state and our counties. State, Regional, and County officials all came together at #MACoCon to exploring the important relationship all levels of government have in stopping roadway fatalities in Maryland.

Delegate Palakovich Carr moderated the panel and was the main sponsor for the Vision Zero legislation that passed in the 2019 legislative session.

Starting from the State perspective, Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA) Administrator Christine Nizer discussed state resources and the important of partnering with local governments.

Bala Akundi, Principal Transportation Engineer of the Baltimore Regional Transportation Board, gave the regional perspective on the process of State Highway Safety Plans spoke on the need for all levels of government to be involved.

Prince George’s County Council Member Monique Anderson-Walker spoke on the implementation of #DrivingItHome and what it takes to change the driving culture in a county.

Scott Flanigan, Director of Public Works for Cecil County, ended the panel by giving his take on the experience of implementing a SHSP and what lessons were learned in the process.

The session was held on Thursday, December 5, 2019.

The 2019 MACo Winter Conference, “Building for the Future,” was held on December 4-6, 2019, at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, Maryland.