Complete Streets movement celebrates adoption of 500th policy in the United States

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Complete Streets Coalition, a program of Smart Growth America, will mark the adoption of the country’s 500th Complete Streets policy with an event celebrating communities across the nation that have committed to building safer, more accessible streets for all road users. The panel discussion and reception in Washington, D.C., begins today, August 14, at 3 p.m. EDT, and will be livestreamed online.

The event will focus in part on Memphis, Tennessee, whose Complete Streets measure is the 500th of such policy in the United States. The event speakers will look back at the communities that have passed these policies, commemorate the City of Memphis and look toward the future of the Complete Streets movement around the country.

“I am emboldened by the fact that over 500 Complete Streets Policies have been adopted in the United States,” said Gabe Klein, Commissioner, Chicago Department of Transportation and National Association of City Transportation Officials Board Member. “Incorporating these progressive policies into practice is crucial to sustaining manageable and equitable growth. More municipalities embracing Complete Streets ensures a safer and healthier future for citizens of all ages and abilities.”

The 500th policy celebration comes just weeks after the introduction of the Safe Streets Act of 2013, which would require states and regional planning agencies develop complete streets policies for federally funded projects within two years.

“The adoption of over 500 Complete Streets policies by localities, regions and states proves that communities across the country are dedicated to making sure our streets are safe for all users. When these commonsense policies are implemented everyone benefits—pedestrians, bikers, the disabled and the elderly — and it is inspiring to see such a groundswell of support,” said Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA), who co-sponsored the Safe Streets Act along with Congressman David Joyce (R-OH).

“Cities and states have been leading the way, but now it is time for the federal government to step up and show that it, too, is committed to the safety of our streets and to preventing needless and avoidable tragedies,” said Matsui.

Speaking at today’s event will be:
• Kyle Wagenschutz, Bikeway/Pedestrian Coordinator, City of Memphis, Tenn.;
• Rich Weaver, Director – Planning, Policy & Sustainability, American Public Transportation Association;
• Art Guzzetti, Vice President – Policy, American Public Transportation Association;
• Colleen Hawkinson, AICP, Manager, Strategic Planning Branch, DC Department of Transportation;
• Darren Smith, Policy Representative, National Association of Realtors;
• Jeff Miller, President and CEO, Alliance for Biking & Walking; and
• Roger Millar, Vice President, Smart Growth America.

Watch the livestream of the event starting at 3:00 p.m. EDT today (August 14) at https://bit.ly/16zFXK7.