Feds Adopt Complete Streets Policy!
Posted by Chapin on Mar 17 2010
Tags: complete streets
On the heels of the National Bike Summit in DC, Dept of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced new policy guidance to better incorporate walkers and bicyclists into the nation’s transportation system. Thank you to Local Motion’s members who have helped us speak out on Complete Streets policy over the years. This is a major victory for us.
HERE’S AN EXCERPT FROM RAY LAHOOD’S ANNOUNCEMENT:
http://fastlane.dot.gov/2010/03/my-view-from-atop-the-table-at-the-national-bike-summit.html
Today, I want to announce a sea change. People across America who value bicycling should have a voice when it comes to transportation planning. This is the end of favoring motorized transportation at the expense of non-motorized.
We are integrating the needs of bicyclists in federally-funded road projects. We are discouraging transportation investments that negatively affect cyclists and pedestrians. And we are encouraging investments that go beyond the minimum requirements and provide facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
To set this approach in motion, we have formulated key recommendations for state DOTs and communities:
- Treat walking and bicycling as equals with other transportation modes.
- Ensure convenient access for people of all ages and abilities.
- Go beyond minimum design standards.
- Collect data on walking and biking trips.
- Set a mode share target for walking and bicycling.
- Protect sidewalks and shared-use paths the same way roadways are protected (for example, snow removal)
- Improve nonmotorized facilities during maintenance projects.
Now, this is a start, but it’s an important start. These initial steps forward will help us move forward even further.
LM Note: Please consider sending Secretary Ray LaHood a thank you message on his blog or writing your US Representatives to let them know you support this new direction. Click here for other media coverage.
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on 30 Mar 2010 at 5:42 pm 1.Jay Vos said …
Related: Toronto adopts Dutch ‘woonerf’ street design: "Woonerfs are streets where the boundaries between the areas for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians have been eradicated on purpose, making them true shared spaces; and Toronto wants one."
http://www.24oranges.nl/2010/03/29/toronto-adopti...
Maybe an idea for Burlington, too?