Arizona congressional district most dangerous in nation for pedestrians

PHOENIX — U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego has co-sponsored a bill that aims to make streets safer for pedestrians, a pressing issue in the district he serves.

The Complete Streets Act of 2019 would require states to set aside money for street projects designed and operated to enable safe access for all users and create a statewide program to award the money.

Arizona’s 7th congressional district was the most dangerous in the nation for pedestrians between 2008-17, according to advocacy coalition Smart Growth America.

The district, which includes most of Phoenix and extends into surrounding suburbs, had the most pedestrian fatalities (344) and highest pedestrian fatality rate per 100,000 people (4.48) during that time.

District 7 accounted for almost 23% of Arizona’s pedestrian deaths between 2008-17.

“Our new bill will help make our communities friendly to all types of transportation — including biking, walking and public transit — to make our streets safer, spur the economy and improve public health in Phoenix and across the country,” Gallego said on Twitter.

Gallego, a Democrat, was one of four co-sponsors on the bill, which was introduced Wednesday by Sen. Edward Markey (D-Massachusetts) and U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tennessee).

Three other Arizona districts were among the nation’s top 100 most dangerous districts.

District 1 ranked No. 19, District 9 ranked No. 73 and District 3 ranked No. 90.

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