from the Safe Routes to School National Partnership newsletter, via Jakob Helmboldt and Barbara Duerk
On Monday, March 3, 2008, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced Senate bill S. 2686, The Complete Streets Act of 2008. The Complete Streets Act of 2008 was introduced to ensure that all users of the transportation system, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users as well as children, older individuals, and individuals with disabilities, are able to travel safely and conveniently on streets and highways. The bill would require that state DOTs and MPOs develop complete streets policies for the use of federal funds.
Co-sponsors and supporters of S. 2686 are essential – please call or write to your Senator today to gain their support. Visit the Complete Streets website for talking points, fact sheets and updated information. The Safe Routes to School National Partnership is supporting this bill, as complete streets help to make our roadways safer for everyone, including children, the most vulnerable users.
The National Complete Streets Coalition is a diverse coalition of groups working in support of complete streets. The Safe Routes to School National Partnership was recently approved as a new member of the National Complete Streets Coalition Steering Committee. Other members include Active Living by Design, Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals, the Institute of Transportation Engineers, Smart Growth America, the Thunderhead Alliance and many other vibrant non-profits and associations. Click here for more information on how to get involved with the Coalition.
From Barbara: Please call your local office for Senator Webb and Senator Warner, and/or e-mail them to ask them to sign on as sponsors for Senate Bill SB 2686. The Commonwealth Transportation Board passed in Spring 2004 requirements that complete streets guidelines be considered in all new transportation projects. On March 17, 2008, Roanoke unanimously adopted complete streets guidelines for the city’s comprehensive plan.
From Allen: While it never uses the term ‘complete streets,’ the VDOT Policy for Integrating Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodations is a good complete streets policy statement for a state transportation agency.
Update from Allen & Matt: The League of American Bicyclists has set up an email action alert to directly ask U.S. Senators to co-sponsor S. 2686.
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