San Antonio Launches New Commission for Enhanced Pedestrian and Transportation Safety

San Antonio Embraces Pedestrian and Transportation Safety

In a significant step towards enhancing mobility and safety for all road users, the San Antonio City Council recently appointed 11 members to the newly formed Multimodal Transportation Commission. This commission, which was officially created in May 2025, is composed of transportation advocates and practitioners and is set to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that address transportation safety and accessibility in the city.

A Diverse and Skilled Commission

The 11-member commission includes a variety of appointees who represent different facets of transportation needs in San Antonio. Members include cyclists, transit riders, transportation engineers, and advocates for disadvantaged transport users. Notable appointees are:

• James “Jim” Bailey (Cyclist, District 1)
• Melissa Gonzales (Transit Rider, District 3)
• Jesse Harasta (Transit Rider, District 6 and co-chair of San Antonians for Rail Transit)
• Razi Hosseini (Vice President of Engineering, VIA Outdoors)

These appointees will serve terms that conclude on May 31, 2027, and will meet on a quarterly basis to address transportation-related policies, alongside other pressing issues affecting pedestrians and transit users.

Building a Multimodal Future for San Antonio

The establishment of this commission is a direct response to the city’s evolving transportation needs outlined in several planning documents, including the Bike Network Plan and the Complete Streets policy. These initiatives prioritize non-motorized forms of transportation, aiming to create an environment where residents can safely use bikes, walk, or utilize public transport without relying solely on private vehicles.

According to Jesse Harasta, one of the co-founders of San Antonians for Rail Transit, the commission aims to provide alternatives to car dependency. “I hope that we can encourage a different model, one which gives San Antonians the option of forms of transportation other than solely the private vehicle,” he stated, emphasizing the vision for a cleaner, safer, and more efficient transportation future.

The Commission's Goals and Responsibilities

Tasked with advising city officials on transportation matters, the commission will focus on forging connections between various travel modes. This approach revolves around key objectives such as:

• Enhancing system connectivity for better transitions between modes of transportation.
• Addressing the diverse needs of pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and motorists.
• Considering land use patterns to inform effective transportation planning.

The commission is also charged with reviewing and updating policies and offering recommendations to improve conditions for all road users, regardless of how they travel.

Future Trends in Urban Mobility

As San Antonio continues to grow, the need for innovative transportation solutions becomes increasingly critical. The commission not only reflects this urgent demand but potentially sets a precedent for other U.S. cities grappling with similar challenges of urban mobility. The integration of multimodal strategies could lead to reduced congestion, enhanced public health, and improved overall quality of life for residents.

Joey Pawlik, executive director of ActivateSA, highlights the importance of the commission's work, noting, “Nearly every day we hear of new deaths or serious injuries on our streets… to create safe, healthy, fear-free streets for everyone is our ultimate goal.”

Engaging the Community in Transportation Dialogue

This new commission emphasizes community involvement, acknowledging the public's demand for a permanent voice in transportation discussions. With ongoing conversations about roadway design and user safety, the Multimodal Transportation Commission represents a monumental opportunity for San Antonio residents to engage with their local government around critical urban planning issues.

Ultimately, the success of this initiative will hinge on ongoing public input and collaboration among city officials, community members, and advocacy groups. As policies evolve, the goal remains clear: to develop a safe, efficient, and interconnected transportation framework that serves the needs of all San Antonio residents.

For further updates and discussions on San Antonio's transportation initiatives, stay tuned to local news and participate in community meetings.