The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)’s Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment (VRUSA), developed by VHB, was awarded an American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Virginia Engineering Excellence Award of Merit. This recognition highlights impactful engineering achievements across the Commonwealth. VDOT’s VRUSA was recognized for its innovative approach to enhancing safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized road users.
Developed by VHB in partnership with Precision Systems, the VRUSA supports Virginia’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) by introducing data-informed strategies aimed at reducing fatalities and serious injuries among vulnerable road users. By identifying high-risk areas and recommending targeted infrastructure improvements and policy measures, the assessment helps communities take meaningful action to create safer streets.
“This award for the VRUSA is a testament to VDOT’s leadership and commitment to advancing roadway safety,” said Lauren Blackburn, VHB Project Manager. “By prioritizing data-informed solutions and innovative strategies, it sets a powerful example for other states looking to protect their most vulnerable travelers.”
To develop a comprehensive understanding of safety challenges, the VRUSA analyzed factors, such as roadway characteristics, speed limits, and time of day, alongside demographics like race, ethnicity, income, and age. VHB engaged a broad network of stakeholders throughout the project—including VDOT staff, local governments, transit agencies, and regional planning organizations—through workshops focused on collaboration and strategy development.
“Creating safer roadways is a shared responsibility,” said Lauren. “While VDOT leads the implementation of these strategies, success depends on collective action from emergency responders, health professionals, businesses, schools, families, law enforcement, engineers, and planners. Everyone has a role to play in fostering a culture of safety that protects all users of our roadways.”
Read the full VRUSA or learn more about Safety at VHB.
