Richmond makes citywide speed data available to public via new dashboard

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond now has a public dashboard for citywide speed data available on its website, with city leaders saying this launch is about government transparency.

On Thursday, July 24, the city's Department of Public Works (DPW) announced a new addition to its Vision Zero webpage: an interactive dashboard that showcases comprehensive citywide speed data.

"As promised at the Speed Management Symposium in May, we’re making citywide speed data public for the first time," said Mayor Danny Avula in a press release. "This is about delivering on our commitment to transparency and giving residents clear, accessible information about driver behavior on Richmond’s streets. It’s a critical step toward building trust and making our streets safer for everyone."

When accessed, the dashboard displays speed data from the most recent two months. Said data is collected through cell phones and vehicle GPS systems.

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The city will use this data to inform "engineering, enforcement and education efforts," according to officials.

“Managing traffic speeds helps ensure our first responders can reach emergencies more safely, said Richmond Fire Marshall William Spindle in the release. "As a member of the Vision Zero Task Force, I’m encouraged that this speed data is now publicly available. It demonstrates the impact of traffic calming measures and highlights areas along the High Injury Network where we still need improvements."

You can browse the dashboard here.

Vision Zero is an international initiative that aims to reduce traffic deaths and injuries "while promoting safe, healthy and equitable mobility for everyone," per the city.