City of Talladega Blog

(Talladega, AL) Thanks to "Vision Zero Talladega," an initiative designed to increase traffic safety in our community, the crosswalk at the intersection of Asbury Street and South Street East has undergone a vibrant transformation.

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) staff and campers, City of Talladega employees, Goodwyn Mills (GMC) representatives and others recently painted the crosswalk to make it safer for visually impaired pedestrians.

"Building on community engagement efforts that began with Vision Zero focus groups, the city—along with AIDB, Talladega College, and other partners—helped develop a plan of action that reflects our commitment to creating safer streets and roads," said City Manager Derrick Swanson. “We are thankful for the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant, which funded this initiative, to GMC for leading our project, and to all of the individuals, institutions and organizations in our community who have worked diligently to ensure that our plan addresses Talladega’s unique needs and concerns."

AIDB President Dennis A. Gilliam, Ed.D. said, "Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind remains committed to its partnership with the City of Talladega in an effort to enhance and improve accessibility and safety for all. The Vision Zero Safety Action Plan is an example of this continued collaboration. The vibrant mural created adjacent to an AIDB campus with help from our AIDB family is a reminder that each of us has the ability to innovate and to create. It is truly a pleasure to see this happening in the city where we live, work and play."

Motor vehicle accidents are the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and Alabama is ranked the 7th deadliest state due to motor vehicle deaths. In the last 16 years, the City of Talladega has seen 41 deaths and has worked approximately 8243 traffic accidents. Vision Zero aims establish a plan of action that ensures that there will be zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries. 

Brittney Gardner-Braxton, an Alabama School for the Blind graduate who helped paint the crosswalk, said, "As a student at ASB, I would walk that way a lot. Painting that crosswalk will definitely make people slow down and think about AIDB when they go that way. I got paint all over me, but it was really fun. I am glad I could be a part of the project.”

“This initiative holds a special place in my heart—not just as a member of this community, but as someone whose family has been touched by this project. My brother graduated from AIDB, and my nephew is currently a student. Through them, I’ve come to deeply understand the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where children and young adults can thrive without barriers," said Nicole McClurkin, executive assistant to City Manager Derrick Swanson. "Watching the students painting, interacting, and encouraging one another with such kindness and joy was incredibly moving. It reminded me that safety isn't just about infrastructure—it’s about protecting the spirit, creativity, and potential of every student.”

ASL Interpreting Intern Lydia Standifer, added, "It was a great experience to work with a diverse group. This project brought together individuals who were Deaf and Blind, and even individuals from foreign countries. Seeing people from different backgrounds and cultures work together for a single cause was inspiring.”

Airryelle Harris, an Alabama School for the Deaf student who also participated in the community service project, said, "It will bring a lot of awareness to the area. I think we also need to paint one by ASD, and I would like to help with that one too."

Samantha Williams, a student at Helen Keller School of Alabama, said, “I really enjoyed painting the different shapes. It was hot, but it was fun.”    

Director of Employment Services Isis Mann, stated, “When the City of Talladega reached out to us about being a part of this project, it was an immediate ‘Yes’ for our students to be involved. This project grants our students valuable work experience, exposure to the community, and being a part of something that helps bring awareness about their own cultures.”