Officials on Tuesday addressed the increase in pedestrian-related crashes and fatalities in Henrico and reiterated the county’s commitment to safety efforts, which includes $1.5 million in new funding for street lighting, planned projects to enhance pedestrian accommodations, and public safety messages.

At a Pedestrian Safety Month press conference, Fire Chief Jackson Baynard, Police Executive Chief Ken Burnett, and Public Works Director Terrell Hughes discussed safety initiatives that will continue well after the month of October. Also speaking at the event was Ashley Fisher, whose 15-year-old son, Nathaniel Clark, passed away after being struck by a vehicle on Staples Mill Road on Sept. 8.
“I would hope that — not just this press conference — but Henrico, and hopefully the state, will implement some change so people can be safer,” Fisher said outside the Henrico Recreation & Park offices on Staples Mill. “If we could just implement [change], that would really make me feel better, and I know that Nathaniel would want that, too.”
She also called for more safety education and awareness among students, motorists and pedestrians. “He would want everybody to get up, do something,” she said of Nathaniel. “Be more vigilant, you know. And maybe in his honor, take the right steps to make it safe for everybody else to walk, as well.”
Pedestrian-involved crashes are on the rise across Virginia, and to date in 2024, Henrico Police has reported 70 crashes involving pedestrians on public and private roads. Of those 70 crashes, there were 11 pedestrian fatalities.
“One of the most difficult tasks our officers face is having to tell a family that their loved one died from a traffic crash,” Burnett said. “Unfortunately, that has happened far too many times this year. We all play a role in making sure everyone traveling across our county gets where they’re going safely.”
In September, the Board of Supervisors approved a $1.5 million budget amendment for street lighting, a supplement to an existing annual investment of $5 million for pedestrian-focused projects, like sidewalks.

“We are prioritizing sidewalks, crosswalks, trails and bike lanes across the county,” Hughes said. “However, adding roadway lighting to the mix will provide one more effective tool in addressing the safety challenges of residents.”
The Watch Out Ahead Henrico! public safety campaign launched in November 2023. WOAH! is a collaboration among multiple county departments focused on improving traffic safety and travel in Henrico County. The WOAH! campaign promotes safer streets for all and reminds motorists and pedestrians alike to stay alert and remain aware of their surroundings.
“WOAH! has gained a lot of visibility in its first year, and countywide, we’ve distributed more than 10,000 of the campaign’s signature neon-yellow vests,” Burnett said. “Pedestrians are encouraged to wear bright and reflective clothing at night.”
Free WOAH! vests are available at county libraries, recreation centers, police stations and both government centers. Learn more about WOAH! at henrico.gov/police/watchoutaheadhenrico/.
To learn more about Public Works investments in pedestrian safety, visit henrico.gov/works/pedestrian-safety-in-henrico. Watch a replay of the press event.

