The Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville metro area has been named the 11th most dangerous in the United States for pedestrians, according to a new report. The data highlights concerns about traffic safety in Brevard County and neighboring regions. The report, released this month, analyzes pedestrian fatalities and injuries across major metropolitan areas. Local officials have not yet commented publicly on the findings.
The ranking is based on statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for 2022. Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville saw 14 pedestrian deaths that year, placing it among the top 15 metro areas nationally. The report does not specify which neighborhoods or roadways in the region contributed most to the fatalities. Statewide, Florida ranks 13th in the nation for pedestrian deaths, according to the same data.
Residents in the area have long raised concerns about speeding vehicles and inadequate crosswalks. In 2023, the Florida Department of Transportation allocated $2.3 million for road safety improvements in Brevard County, including new traffic signals and sidewalk expansions. However, advocates say more needs to be done to address the issue.
The report comes as Brevard County officials prepare for a spike in pedestrian traffic during the upcoming launch of SpaceX's Starship program. Increased vehicle movement around the Kennedy Space Center and surrounding areas has prompted discussions about infrastructure upgrades. No specific plans have been announced to address the report's findings.
Local law enforcement agencies have not released statements about the ranking. A spokesperson for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office said they are reviewing the report but declined to comment further. The next update to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s data is expected in late 2024.