The American Association of Retired Persons New Mexico is pleased to learn that the state Department of Transportation has received a $441,000 federal grant for a campaign aimed at improving pedestrian safety and reducing fatalities.

AARP has deep concerns about pedestrian safety. We are aware that New Mexico ranks third in the country for the rate of pedestrian fatalities per capita.

We have been working on educating our members on walking both as part of a healthier lifestyle and as part of using public transportation.

Furthermore, a recent survey asking New Mexicans over age 50 about mobility issues indicated that the closest bus stop to their homes on average is 2.1 miles away — which would require people wanting to utilize public transportation to walk some distance before reaching a bus stop.

It is imperative that barriers and impediments to safe streets be eliminated.

To help achieve this, AARP New Mexico has launched a campaign in three communities, Albuquerque, Las Cruces and Santa Fe, inspecting some of the more hazardous intersections. We are asking our members to survey each intersection and examine whether prudent modifications, for example better light fixtures and improved crosswalk markings, could improve safety. Recommendations would be forwarded to the appropriate city officials and City Council members.

If any groups or individuals wish to join AARP in this effort, please call our office at 1-866-389-5636.

We are glad the state DOT will also be helping in these efforts, both through consumer education and law-enforcement activities.

Leonel Garza is the state legislative committee chairman for AARP New Mexico.
He lives in Santa Fe.