City of Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter was selected as one of 12 U.S. mayors to join the 2025 Mayors Institute on Pedestrian Safety.

The Mayors Innovation Project has announced the third cohort of the Mayors Institute on Pedestrian Safety, which is supported by AARP and Smart Growth America.

Twelve mayors were selected through a national competitive application process to join this year’s program.

“I am truly humbled and honored to be accepted into the 2025 cohort for the Mayors Institute on Pedestrian Safety alongside the Mayors Innovative Project with support from AARP Liveable Communities and Smart Growth America,” Slaughter said.

“This is a vital step forward in our ongoing commitment to ensuring safer streets for every resident in Williamsport – whether they are walking, biking, or driving,” he said.

“It is critical that we continuously work towards improving the safety of our streets, and this program will provide invaluable knowledge and resources to help us stay on the cutting edge of best practices in pedestrian safety.”

“Together, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe, no matter how they choose to move through our city.”

“Whether you’re a business owner or the parent of a young child, safety is absolutely fundamental to thriving communities,” said Beth Osborne, Director of Transportation for America, Smart Growth America’s transportation arm.

“Mayors are essential to this work, and we are eager to work with this year’s cohort to share and implement more of what we know creates safer, more vibrant communities for all.”

MIPS is designed to equip local leaders with the tools and best practices to make meaningful safety improvements on dangerous roadways and create long-term, systemic change.

Through expert-led workshops, peer exchanges, and one-on-one coaching, MIPS helps mayors champion safer, more livable communities.

Over the next six months, the mayors will engage in a blend of virtual and in-person programming, working with national experts and fellow mayors to address the urgent pedestrian safety challenges in their communities.

Pedestrian fatalities continue to rise at alarming rates across the U.S., with an average of 20 people killed each day by drivers.

Safety is the first and most important responsibility of government, and local leaders are uniquely positioned to act. Improving roadway safety has many benefits beyond safety, from supporting tourism and economic development, to creating communities where everyone – families, seniors, and working adults – can thrive.

“We’re thrilled to welcome this year’s mayors to the MIPS program,” said Katya Spear, Managing Director of the Mayors Innovation Project. “Each brings a unique perspective and deep commitment to public safety, while representing a broad range of city size, geographic regions, and forms of government. Together, we’ll support their work to make streets safer for everyone in their communities.”

The AARP Liveable Communities has provided MIPS continued support, which has enabled the growth and success of this initiative.