The Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is seeking public input as it develops a comprehensive safety plan to improve the safety of people driving, biking, walking and using public transit in the region. The planning effort is funded by an $800,000 grant from the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The MPO is asking residents to share their thoughts on safety strategies and areas of concern. “We want to take every step possible to further reduce roadway casualties,” Mark Holm, MPO chair and mayor of Ankeny, said in a news release. “To do that we need to learn from the people who use the transportation system every day – the people who know the trouble spots and have ideas for safety improvements.” Residents can complete a brief online survey at dmampo.org/safety-action-plan. They can use an interactive mapping tool to identify areas of concern and share ideas to improve safety. According to the release, residents are encouraged to provide their input soon as their opinions are valuable in the early stages of development of the plan, which will guide transportation planning leaders in making investments and changes that will help reduce or eliminate traffic-related fatalities and injuries over time. Additional opportunities for public input will be available throughout the planning process.