Longmont Honors 33 Lives Lost in Traffic Crashes at Memorial Event

UPDATE: Longmont is paying tribute to the 33 lives lost on its roadways over the past five years during an emotional memorial event held on November 16, 2023. The ceremony, part of the global World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, drew residents, city officials, and first responders to the Longmont Museum to honor those affected by traffic incidents.

At the event, thirty-three candles illuminated the atrium, each symbolizing a life taken too soon. A poignant “ghost bike,” created by the city’s Vision Zero Task Force, stood nearby, representing the vulnerable road users the community is dedicated to protecting.

Dylan Zamora-Silva, communications specialist for the Vision Zero Task Force, stated, “Tonight is about honoring, paying tribute to, and creating a space for those impacted by traffic crashes.” He emphasized the city’s commitment to achieving zero deaths and serious injuries by 2040.

Survivor Brittany Lamb shared her heart-wrenching story from a 1997 drunk-driving crash that claimed the lives of her aunt and four others. “Healing isn’t pretending you’re fine. It’s learning to let go of what was never yours to hold,” she said, urging attendees to pursue change through remembrance.

Camme Edson, Longmont’s Vision Zero coordinator, spoke about the personal impact of road safety, recalling friends and neighbors lost to crashes. “We are missing and grieving some of the people that we have lost on our roadways,” she said, highlighting the urgency of the Vision Zero initiatives launched in 2023.

According to Edson, Longmont has recorded 8,994 crashes over the last five years, with 294 serious injuries and 33 fatalities. She pointed out that distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield remain significant contributors to these incidents.

The Vision Zero approach aims to tackle both infrastructure and behavioral issues related to traffic safety. Zamora-Silva emphasized the program’s focus on educating the community about responsible driving practices, including the dangers of driving while fatigued or under the influence. “It really spans that more human-centric angle of transportation,” he noted.

The emotional gathering underscored the deeply personal nature of road safety initiatives. Edson remarked, “Transportation affects our daily lives, whether we actively or consciously think about it or not.” She urged attendees to renew their commitments to protecting one another on the roads.

As the event concluded, Zamora-Silva expressed hope for the future, stating, “I’m really excited to try and make it even better.” He envisions the Day of Remembrance becoming an enduring tradition in Longmont, growing in participation and impact each year.

This year’s memorial event serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing battle against traffic-related tragedies. With the community’s collective commitment, Longmont aims to transform remembrance into action, driving towards a safer future for all road users.