Press Release - US: 'Complete Streets' Bill Introduced to Help Americans Save on Transportation Costs, Cut Congestion

[Contrast this with what legislators in Canada are doing. - MH]

Americans nationwide could face less traffic congestion and cut their transportation costs if Congress passes legislation introduced today by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), "The Complete Streets Act of 2009." U.S. Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA) introduced the bill last night in the U.S. House of Representatives.

A complete street takes into account all users of the street -- not just those in cars -- and is a safe corridor for people traveling by foot, bicycle, transit, and car. More than 80 jurisdictions nationwide already have adopted complete streets policies though legislation, internal agency policies and design manuals, including Salt Lake City, Seattle, Charlotte, N.C., and Bloomington/Monroe County, Indiana. They have been shown to improve safety and encourage healthy and active lifestyles.

"The Complete Streets Act of 2009" directs state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) and Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) to adopt complete streets policies on future federally funded transportation projects within two years.