(1) Based on actively and furthermore comprehensively managing the flow and stream of traffic with upgraded central traffic control system centers and optical beacons $ ^{*} $ capable of two-way communication with individual cars as a medium, advanced road traffic information provision, driving control for cars, priority lanes for public vehicles, reduction of traffic pollution, support of safe driving, and ensuring the safety of pedestrians was devised. Based on the conception of new transport control systems (UTMS) that attempt to secure the safety and comfort of traffic, the implementation of key infrastructure optical beacons was promoted.

(2) In addition to the functions provided by individual on-board units such as Vehicle Navigation System, VICS and ETC, spot communications enables provision of expanded traffic data or driving safety support, tourist information, and logistics vehicle with single on-board unit, which is called the smart way service. This service has been actively promoted with the launching of roadside unit deployments on highways and initiating the full-scale service.

## Comprehensive Improvement of a Bicycle Usage Environment

While clarifying the role and position of bicycles as an urban transport that corresponds with the urban structure, there is a need to recognize bicycles as a transport method along with pedestrians and cars, ensure safety of bicycles and pedestrians by improving a safe and convenient bicycle path as a network, and to improve the general bicycle usage environment. As a result, bicycle paths and exclusive lanes were improved in "bicycle traffic environment model areas" specified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and National Police Agency in 98 districts nationwide, and deliberation is advancing for every issue and its improvement strategy. Also, in order to correspond to the new needs for bicycle use, the introduction of community cycling was promoted whereby it is possible to freely loan out and return bicycles in cycle ports established in multiple areas within cities.

## 2 Dissemination and Reinforcement of Traffic Safety Messages

## Promotion of Traffic Safety Education for the Elderly

In order to elevate traffic safety awareness based on the mutual edification of elderly cohorts, the establishment of traffic safety divisions in seniors' clubs and retirement homes as well as the training of elderly traffic safety instructors (silver leaders) was promoted. Also voluntary traffic safety activities such as the creation of "Hiyari maps" were developed, and instruction and support was given so as to fulfill the leading role of traffic safety activities in local areas and households.

## Promotion of the Safe Usage of Bicycles

In order to demonstrate that the bicycle is a vehicle, thus its user need to respect the rules as vehicles and practice traffic etiquette when passing through a road, public awareness-raising activities that apply "5 Rules for Bicycle Safety Usage" shown in the Central Traffic Safety Policy Council Decision were promoted along with traffic safety education such as participatory/revelatory/hands-on bicycle classrooms that target wide bicycle user groups regarding the correct way to ride a bicycle taking into account pedestrians and other bicycles. Such education applies automobile area training courses, audiovisual aids, simulators, and the 'scared straight system' (an experiential educational method that faces fear).