On May 9, Atlanta’s dedicated street safety advocates gathered at Wild Heaven’s West End Brewery to celebrate Propel ATL’s 18th annual Blinkie Awards. This significant event, hosted by comedian Mark Kendall, served both as a fundraiser and as a platform to recognize the efforts of individuals and organizations committed to enhancing pedestrian and cycling safety in the city.
Propel ATL, the citywide nonprofit that emerged from the merger of the 30-year-old Atlanta Bicycle Coalition and Pedestrian Educating Drivers on Safety in 2021, has made strides in advocating for safer transportation options since launching in 2022. The Blinkie Awards aim to honor those who work tirelessly to improve walking, biking, public transport, and recreation in Atlanta.
Among the prestigious awards presented was the Leadership in Mobility Award, which went to the Georgia Institute of Technology for its groundbreaking work in creating protected bike infrastructure and fostering partnerships with local organizations including the City of Atlanta, PATH Foundation, and Midtown Alliance. In 2024, the university expanded its cycling infrastructure with new two-way cycle tracks, enhancing access from Midtown to the west side of its campus.
Accepting the award was Jason Gregory, a Landscape Architect at Georgia Tech, who attributed the success to the efforts of the campus community, emphasizing that many of the innovative solutions originated from student projects. Gregory stated, “Most of these results that you see today started as a student project. We challenge our students to come up with safer solutions.”
Another notable award recipient, Dominique Nixon, was honored with the Expanding the Movement Award for founding Pedal Pushers Cycling Club during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the need for safe outdoor activities, Nixon created a space for parents and children to engage in cycling together. The nonprofit not only promotes health and wellness but also works on mentorship for at-risk youth and fosters community safety through cycling.
The Sustainable Transportation Champion Award was awarded to Ben Kamber, a Senior Program Analyst with the Atlanta Regional Commission, for his role in the successful launch of the E-Bike Rebate Program in 2024. With a staggering 11,000 applicants and 581 residents redeeming discounts to purchase e-bikes, the program has set a precedent in the southeast. Kamber expressed gratitude for his ARC team’s effort, while also highlighting the attention other cities are giving to Atlanta’s innovative approach. He remarked, “It really shows the major leadership role that Atlanta is playing.”
Veronica Watts received the Safe Streets Advocate Award in recognition of her commitment to improving pedestrian safety following her own experience as a serious crosswalk crash survivor. Her efforts have included the creation of a ‘Vulnerable Roadway Users’ Senate study committee intended to address the issues faced by individuals who walk, bike, and roll around the city without the safety of a vehicle.
“I just look forward to continuing to advocate for those who are no longer here, who don’t have a voice, as well as their family members,” Watts stated, emphasizing her passion for advocacy work.
The Legacy of Support Award went to DJ Mike Zarin of Zegi, who has contributed significantly as Propel ATL’s longstanding DJ, particularly at the Blinkie Awards. Since founding Zegi in 2009, Zarin has embraced his role as a community advocate, performing at various events that promote sustainable transportation. He shared his excitement to be part of the movement, stating, “Propel ATL has been just such a motivator for me to get involved in pushing for more sustainable and equitable transportation options in Atlanta.”
In the area of media, the Transportation Media Award was presented to Asia Simone Burns and Justin Price from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Their investigative reporting on dangerous high-speed pursuit practices by the Georgia State Patrol culminated in the revealing report titled “Chases Unchecked,” which exposed the state patrol’s pursuit-related fatalities as among the highest in the nation. Accepting the award for the duo, Burns acknowledged the rarity of dedicating such extensive time to a single story, while expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to citizen safety.
The 18th annual Blinkie Awards was not just about recognizing excellence but also about community engagement. Attendees contributed funds, made commitments to sustainable transit, and participated in a silent auction—all aimed at supporting the cause of safer streets.
Reflecting on the successful event, Propel ATL Executive Director Rebecca Serna expressed appreciation for the attendees, describing them as vital to the ecosystem striving for better urban mobility. “You’re all such an important part of this ecosystem, working for Atlanta streets that are safe, inclusive and thriving,” she remarked, outlining her vision for spaces where everyone can walk, ride, or use public transit comfortably. The festive atmosphere at the Blinkie Awards exemplified the community’s commitment to continuing efforts for a safer and more equitable Atlanta.
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