Today Smart Growth America released a national report on the most effective Complete Streets (CS) policies in the US. Complete Streets are a comprehensive approach to designing streets in a way that encourages walking, biking, and public transit and provides a sense of place for the community. A growing number of municipalities across NC are considering adopting such policies, but Raleigh is the only municipality in Wake County that currently has one.
Smart Growth America has scored policies from across the US and highlighted the five top-scoring policies approved in 2016 and explains why they are effective.
Key takeaways are:
- Since 2005, there have been over 1200 Complete Streets policies passed by 33 states, 77 MPOs and 955 municipalities.
- The median score (out of 100) for all CS policies is 80, and Raleigh’s CS policy scores just 56.8.
- Notable is that over half of all CS policies are in small towns and small suburbs.
- An appendix to the report includes ideal CS policy language and methodology.
Designing streets with a Complete Streets model can improve public health, beautify downtowns, and create a built environment that is inclusive of more than just automobiles. WakeUP is speaking up about these benefits and encouraging towns in Wake County to put policies in place!