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State Legislature encourages vibrant cities with passage of Complete Streets measure today

Michigan today made a giant stride in creating more vibrant, livable cities with the passage of Complete Streets legislation in the State House and Senate.

The new policy requires the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to consider non-motorized travel when building or rebuilding street infrastructure. The goals are increased safety; more desirable, livable, family-friendly communities; a healthier lifestyle; and an incentive for young professionals to locate in Michigan.

“This is an important step toward creating places where people want to live, work and play rather than just speed through in a vehicle,” said Michigan Environmental Council Deputy Policy Director Tim Fischer. “It is about rebuilding our roadways to move people, rather than just cars.”

Complete Streets will maximize tools like sidewalks, bike lanes, curb cuts and connectivity to public transit lines and local businesses to safely engage pedestrians, cyclists and disabled persons as well as motorists.  The result is stimulation of central business district economies, less pollution from vehicles, healthier lifestyles and safer streets.

Specifically, it requires MDOT to develop a Complete Streets policy, and to coordinate with local governments with Complete Streets policies when rebuilding state roads that pass through their jurisdictions.

“It is exciting and encouraging seeing Michigan and the Department of Transportation stepping out front as a leader in developing strong people-centered policies like this,” said Chris Kolb, president of the Michigan Environmental Council. “This will make Michigan cities more competitive with neighbors like Chicago for attracting young talent and business investment.”

Michigan joins at least 10 other states and more than 100 jurisdictions nationwide with Complete Streets policies in place.

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