The Complete Streets Act of 2009

This is a bill in the House (H.R. 1443) and Senate (S. 584) right now that proposes all states and MPOs develop a Complete Streets policy in order to ensure their roadways accommodate the safety of all users of all abilities.

The complete streets policy requirement applies to new road construction and road improvement projects, including design, planning, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, maintenance, and operations of projects that receive federal transportation funding

For a more detailed description of the bill check out the Complete Streets Coalition's Section-by-Section Summary.

America Bikes endorses the Complete Streets Act of 2009.

Many of those who do not walk or bike say it is because their community is unsafe to do so. This bill will make our roads safer and more efficient for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders and motorists as well as for children, the elderly and those with disabilities.

This may be as simple as adding a wider shoulder to a rural road or building a median on a busy urban highway. Complete Streets are adaptable to their environment and require no changes where it is cost-prohibitive nor where it would go unused.

One quarter of walking trips take place where there are no sidewalks or shoulders and only five percent of bicycle trips take place in bike lanes. The Complete Streets bill will ensure that transportation agencies routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users

This will make sure that the millions of Americans who cannot drive or chose not to drive can travel safely and efficiently in their communities.

For more information, check out the our partner organization, Complete Streets.