City of Allentown and Lehigh County Coroner Urge Roadway Safety Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

  • City of Allentown and Lehigh County Coroner Urge Roadway Safety Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
Public Safety
September 02, 2025

The City of Allentown and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office are calling on drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians to stay vigilant as traffic volumes increase during the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

August 27, 2025 – The City of Allentown and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office are calling on drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians to stay vigilant as traffic volumes increase during the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

According to the Coroner’s Office, Lehigh County has already recorded eight motorcycle crash fatalities in 2025, with additional roadway deaths reported across vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian incidents. In comparison, 12 total motorcycle crash fatalities were recorded in 2024 and 7 in 2023. During Labor Day weekend 2024 alone, there were 31 collisions, while the City of Allentown recorded 50 collisions in 2023. Officials warn that warmer weather and increased holiday traffic could lead to even greater risk if drivers are not vigilant.

“Every life lost on our roads is one too many,” said Mayor Matt Tuerk. “Through Vision Zero, we are committed to safer streets, better infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns that reduce risks for everyone who uses our roadways. But this work also depends on each of us choosing to drive safely, slow down, and stay alert.”

Coroner Daniel Buglio echoed the urgency, noting that the recent surge in fatalities underscores the importance of collaborative prevention efforts. “My office has investigated too many preventable deaths this year. These crashes leave families devastated. By working together, the City and County can raise awareness and save lives. Our message is simple: we want everyone to make it home safely.”

As part of the City’s Vision Zero strategy to eliminate roadway deaths by 2030, there are currently several major projects underway:

  • High Injury Network Demonstration Project: Installing temporary intersection daylighting measures — including flexible delineator posts and pavement markings — at select high-crash intersections to improve sight lines and enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians.
  • Speed Cushions: The City will be installing over 50 speed cushions at 20 strategic locations. The primary focus is on areas near schools, parks, and hospitals, where lower vehicle speeds are critical for pedestrian safety. These installations will take place in neighborhoods across the South Side, West Side, East Side, and Center City, helping to reduce speeding and enhance safety for residents and vulnerable road users.
  • Jefferson Street Safety Improvements (SS4A & ARLE): Adding temporary pavement markings for parking, bike, and travel lanes; flexible delineators at complex intersections; high-visibility crosswalks near schools, trails, and a church; “No Turn on Red” signs at traffic signals; and converting a short four-lane stretch (Rye St. to Ward St. bridge) into two lanes with a center left-turn lane to reduce speeding and crashes.

“These projects are about saving lives,” said Mayor Tuerk. “We know enforcement and education matter, but so does the way our streets are designed. We’re taking steps now to reduce speeding, increase visibility, and protect our residents.”

The City and Coroner’s Office remind all road users to:

  • Always buckle up and obey the speed limit.
  • Avoid distractions, especially phones.
  • Look twice for motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles.
  • Stop fully for pedestrians at crosswalks.

 

“Labor Day should be a time for families and community, not loss,” added Buglio. “By making safe choices, we can prevent tragedies.”

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