Sumter, South Carolina, is taking comprehensive steps to improve public safety in response to recent events and ongoing community concerns. The city, in partnership with the Sumter Area Transportation Study (SUATS) Metropolitan Planning Organization and other local agencies, is developing a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan. This initiative aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate severe injury and fatal crashes on area roadways. A key focus of the plan is to improve safety for all road users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists by increasing community engagement, conducting safety assessments, and implementing targeted demonstration projects.
The plan includes leadership commitment to set ambitious safety goals with clear timelines, notably aiming for zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries. Public involvement is emphasized through ongoing community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and transparent communication strategies. These efforts will be aligned with regional and state transportation plans to maximize effectiveness.
On the enforcement side, South Carolina continues to support highly visible traffic safety campaigns and enhanced DUI enforcement activities through grants and specialized training for officers. Initiatives such as saturation patrols, checkpoints, and education programs target impaired driving, speeding, and occupant protection. Law enforcement agencies in Sumter participate in statewide campaigns like “Sober or Slammer!” and “Buckle Up, South Carolina,” with a focus on reducing impaired driving and increasing seatbelt compliance.
Sumter’s public safety improvements are also supported by federal grants to develop traffic enforcement units, conduct youth education programs, and promote pedestrian safety. The city is prioritizing a multifaceted approach combining engineering, enforcement, education, and community engagement to create safer streets and foster a culture of traffic safety.
Beyond traffic safety, Sumter is advancing infrastructure improvements such as the North Main Corridor Improvement Project, which will enhance road conditions and pedestrian access, contributing further to overall community safety.
Sumter’s plan to improve public safety involves a coordinated, data-driven strategy that engages residents, improves road infrastructure, empowers law enforcement, and educates the public — all with a goal of making streets safer and saving lives.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/2025-02/SC_FY25_AGA-tag.pdf)
[2](https://www.sumtersc.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/Departments/Purchasing/rfp-04-24-25-sumter-ss4a-safety-action-plan.pdf)
[3](https://www.aceee.org/memo/2025/06/thriving-communities-case-study-sumter-sc)
[4](https://www.sumtersc.gov/news/august-2025-council-highlights)
[5](https://scdps.sc.gov/news/2025/092225)
