TxDOT Odessa District achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to enhance road safety. The updated fatality rate for the calendar year 2023 has reached an all-time low of 1.98 per 100 million miles traveled, the lowest rate since 2010 and possibly the lowest ever recorded.
In stark contrast, the fatality rate in 2022 was 3.01, the highest among all districts. Historically, since 2012, the district has consistently ranked within the top five highest fatality rates compared to other districts. However, this year, we have made remarkable progress, ranking 16th, a news release said.
“We continue to address this issue through the four E’s of traffic safety: Engineering, Enforcement, Education, and Engagement,” Odessa District Engineer Eric Lykins said in the release. “This achievement underscores the strength of partnerships between government agencies, private industry, and non-profits in tackling complex challenges.”
TxDOT said there is still much work to be done to achieve the ultimate goal of zero fatalities, but this downward trend is a testament to the concerted efforts and partnerships dedicated to making our roads safer.
“Collaboration is the heart of the PRSC’s mission,” said Ellen K. Ramsey, Executive Director of the Permian Road Safety Coalition (PRSC). “The significant reduction in the fatality rate on the roads of the Permian Basin is a direct result of many organizations working together toward Goal Zero. Our collective efforts are saving lives.”
This progress is not by accident but the result of deliberate actions and collaborations. We extend our gratitude to all involved in these efforts and remain committed to continuing our work towards safer roads for everyone, the release said.
“The decrease in fatal crashes is a product of the outstanding teamwork of TxDOT, Permian Road Safety Coalition, our oil industry partners’ and DPS,” said Sgt. Steven Blanco, Texas Department of Public Safety. “Through teamwork, we will continue to work towards ending the fatal crash streak in Texas.”
“The Permian Strategic Partnership is proud to partner with TxDOT as we continue doing our part to address road safety challenges across the Permian Basin,” said Tracee Bentley, Permian Strategic Partnership President and CEO. “Today, we are encouraged to be one step closer to Ending the Streak on Texas roadways.”
“The Permian Basin MPO is the only urbanized planning area in the TxDOT Odessa District. The MPO Policy Board has consistently voted to approve safety projects in the Midland Odessa area; furthermore, the Board also takes pride in knowing that its decisions are having a positive impact on safer roads for everyone,” said Cameron Walker, Executive Director of the Permian Basin Metropolitan Planning Organization.
TxDOT plans to highlight this achievement and feature it prominently during their upcoming “End the Streak” campaign. In 2024, there have been 115 fatalities, a decrease from 125 at the same time last year.
“Despite a recent uptick in roadway deaths over the past week, we remain hopeful that we can maintain these lower numbers through the remainder of the fall,” Lykins added.
