NEW ORLEANS - District "D" Councilmember Jared C. Brossett will join the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) and Le Sanctuary, Inc. for a diversity forum announcing the new "Can You See Me Now?" initiative, on Wednesday, September 18, 2019, at the Audubon Nature Center in New Orleans. LHSC Executive Director Lisa Freeman will lead the forum alongside local and state public safety officials who have postured themselves to address the growing concern of increasing bike and pedestrian injuries and fatalities. This event will provide a platform for law enforcement officials, influencers, and concerned citizens to work collaboratively in an effort to improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians as well as promote better behaviors on the road.   

At a time when 2018 data identifies a 43% increase from 2017 in pedestrian deaths across Louisiana, the City of New Orleans is a ranking leader in Louisiana for the number of pedestrian injuries and crashes. Moreover, New Orleans' pedestrian fatality rate exceeds that of the national average.  In New Orleans, dozens of pedestrians and bicyclists die on the road every year, and most of these deaths go unnoticed due to lack of awareness and poor visibility. Through the "Can You See Me Now?" initiative, Councilmember Brossett and LHSC are determined to not only place a spotlight on the issue but also offer education and engagement for this growing epidemic.  

"As a community, we must remember that all roadway users have a responsibility to use public roads safely and conscientiously," said Councilmember Brossett, creator of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. "I'm looking forward to discussing how we can continue to improve safety measures at the upcoming forum." 

WHO: City Councilmember Jared Brossett,  LHSC, Le Sanctuary, Inc., and other City and State officials 

WHAT: Diversity Forum announcing the "Can You See Me Now" bicycle and safety initiative 

WHEN: Wednesday, September 18, 2019, 10 a.m.