Eureka is taking steps to make its streets safer and more welcoming for everyone through the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Study, a communitydriven initiative focused on reducing traffic injuries and improving mobility for walkers, bikers, and drivers alike.
The SS4A program provides federal funding to help communities make streets safer for everyone. Grants can fund planning and improvements like sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, and safety programs, covering up to 80% of project costs. Local communities use SS4A funds to reduce crashes, save lives, and create streets where everyone can move safely.
The Need for Safer Streets
Every year, tens of thousands of lives are lost in traffic crashes nationwide. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that in 2022 alone, 42,514 people were killed in U.S. roadway crashes. In Kansas, 410 people died — a rate of 14 deaths per 100,000 residents.
From 2019 to 2023, the City of Eureka saw 83 total crashes, including 0 fatal crashes, 20 injury crashes, 1 involving pedestrians, and 0 involving bicyclists. To prevent crashes, injuries, and fatalities, we must continue improving the transportation network for all street users. At the same time, walkable, connected streets promote public health, reduce stress, and foster social bonds, creating a safer, healthier, and more socially connected community where people can interact naturally during their daily routines.
Walkable Streets Build Community Research shows that streets designed for people — not just cars — benefit more than safety. A study in the American Journal of Public Health found that residents in walkable neighborhoods are more likely to know their neighbors, trust others, and participate in civic life. A recent University of California, San Diego study adds that adults living in pedestrian-friendly areas are significantly more likely to interact with neighbors and feel a stronger sense of community.
“Creating streets that are safe and walkable isn’t just about preventing crashes — it’s about building a stronger, more connected community where neighbors know and support each other,” said Stephen Coulter, Mayor, City of Eureka.
What Residents Are Saying
In November, Eureka hosted two pop-up events — at the Cattleman’s Day Parade and the Arts & Crafts Show at Eureka Downs — gathering more than 30 resident comments o n l o c al street conditions.
Common concerns included:
•Driving challenges: potholes, road dips, drivers ignoring stop signs, and stressful traffic on U.S. 54 and North Greenwood Street.
•Pedestrian safety: missing or damaged sidewalks, gaps between neighborhoods and destinations, and areas where walking feels unsafe.
•Other issues: limited biking space, motorized scooters on busy streets, and visibility problems from poorly maintained properties.
“Hearing directly from residents helps us understand the real challenges people face every day on our streets, and their feedback guides the improvements we make to keep everyone safe and connected,” said Renee Burk, City Clerk, City of Eureka.
Turning Feedback Into Action
The SS4A team is using these comments to guide the city’s Safety Action Plan, focusing on:
•Sidewalk and trail improvements
•Safer routes to school
•Traffic calming and crosswalk enhancements
•Accessibility upgrades for seniors and people with mobility challenges Early findings point to key areas of concern along U.S. 54 / River Street, North Greenwood Street, and downtown neighborhoods. Addressing these spots will not only reduce crash risk but also create spaces that encourage neighborly interaction, casual social connection, and civic engagement.
How to Get Involved
The City of Eureka and SS4A partners will continue collecting feedback through a survey, focus groups, and public meetings. Residents can complete the online survey at https://bit.ly/ SS4AllReka and sign up for focus groups beginning in early 2026.
“Community input is essential — every idea helps us design streets that are safer, more accessible, and better for everyone who lives, works, and moves through Eureka,” said Ben Fox, Planning Commission member, City of Eureka.
Residents can stay informed through the City’s Facebook page as the project progresses.
