Cities, towns enact ‘complete streets’ policy

Twenty Massachusetts cities and towns, representing nearly a quarter of the state’s population, have enacted measures that mandate the use of “complete streets” when building or renovating local infrastructure.
 
Enactment of a local policy is one requirement for municipalities to access state funding through the Complete Streets Certification Program currently being formulated by the Department of Transportation.
 
The objective of “complete streets” is to improve existing transportation networks to promote walking and bicycling, encourage the use of public transportation, and, in some cases, reduce traffic congestion. The design approach takes into account pedestrians, bicyclists and public transportation – not just motor vehicles – when planning and designing new streets, parks and sidewalks, or when renovating them.
 
Proponents of the “complete streets” approach recognize that its implementation is context-specific, meaning that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Roadways, intersections and public transportation hubs vary widely across the state. In a small number of built environment scenarios, complete streets simply will not be of any practical, or cost-effective, use, and traditional infrastructure planning will be sufficient.
 
MassDOT’s fiscal 2016 Capital Investment Plan has allocated $12.5 million to its Complete Streets Certification Program to support municipal efforts. These funds will be awarded to municipalities who have enacted a local policy and have applied to design, build and/or rehabilitate specific roadway projects that provide better mobility options for all users.
 
Additional criteria to apply for this local funding has not yet been finalized by MassDOT. The funding can be used for both design and construction, according to MassDOT.
 
For more information, visit www.massdot.state.ma.us/GreenDOT/HealthyTransportation/CompleteStreets.aspx.
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