The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Drive To Zero Coalition hosted the third annual Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol today, bringing together state agencies, law enforcement and safety advocates to address ongoing efforts to reduce traffic fatalities in the state.
The event, held in the 2nd Floor Rotunda of the Kansas Statehouse, served as a platform for the DTZ Coalition to share strategic initiatives and progress toward the "Safe System" approach—a data-driven framework designed to eliminate serious injuries and deaths on Kansas roadways.
During a 9:30 a.m. news conference, KDOT Secretary Calvin Reed emphasized that roadway safety is a collective effort.
“No single agency or solution can get us to zero lives lost in traffic crashes” said Secretary Reed. “Success depends on shared responsibility and strong partnerships across state government, local communities and the public. DTZ Day at the Capitol highlights the work being done and what we need to do to continue the work in roadway safety.”
Speakers at the event included Kansas Highway Patrol Captain Matt Payne, Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Janet Stanek, and State Representative Shannon Francis. Each leader highlighted how their respective departments are integrating safety into infrastructure, emergency response, and public health policy.
Throughout the morning, legislators and the public engaged with interactive displays and safety professionals representing law enforcement, first responders, and local businesses. These exhibits showcased how local and state-level cooperation is being used to combat risky driving behaviors.
The Drive To Zero initiative continues to implement the 2025-2029 Strategic Highway Safety Plan, focusing on engineering, enforcement, education, and emergency response. For more information on the initiative and how to get involved, visit their website.