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The city’s partnership with EZ Ride and the New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority [NJTPA] has led to a recognition by the latter.

The collaboration came about in order to bring Street Smart NJ Pedestrian Safety Education Campaign to the city, officials said. Established in 2013, the pedestrian safety program was implemented in almost forty communities across the state.

This month, at the NJTPA Board of Trustee meeting, the city will be honored for making pedestrian safety a priority, according to a news release issued Monday.

“We’re grateful to the NJTPA for the recognition, and for leading this campaign across the state,” said Councilwoman Yvonne Clayton, who heads the city’s Quality of Life Committee. “We’re happy to partner with EZ Ride to try and bring awareness of these safety measures to everyone traveling on our roads, whether they’re on foot or in a car.”

The local Street Smarts campaign included posting signs high-volume areas, from Rutgers University and the Planning Department volunteers distributing information cards, and social media tips and information, advising pedestrians against everything from the dangers of jaywalking to the importance of not walking while texting.

“Awareness is a first and very important step to making sure everyone can feel as safe as possible traveling through Asbury Park,” Deputy Mayor Amy Quinn said. “It’s one part of our dedication to protecting pedestrians, and everyone else on the roads.”

In November the Street Smart Campaign will extend to additional on-site analysis and outreach initiatives, officials said.

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