WASHINGTON-- 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, NC; and Bloomington/Monroe County, IN. 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.
"Senator Harkin and Congresswoman Matsui understand that unless we change how we build our roads, we will face an endless cycle of rising transportation costs, increased congestion, and more pedestrian and cycling accidents," said Michael Replogle, a Department of Transportation (DOT) adviser and Transportation Director at Environmental Defense Fund. "In today's economy, every community wants more safe transportation options that are less expensive and our state transportation departments must adjust accordingly."
Complete streets also help the pocketbook. The average American who lives in an area that's walkable and has transit spends only 9% of their income on transportation, while a person living in an area that requires driving spends more than 25%. In addition, complete streets are cost effective because when cities and towns build streets correctly the first time, they reduce congestion, pollution, and local contributions to the global warming problem by providing several travel options.
Environmental Defense Fund
www.edf.org
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