LANSING – In a move that will make transportation more accessible to all residents, the House and Senate today passed "Complete Streets" legislation sponsored by State Representatives Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township) and Jon Switalski (D-Warren) to ensure that future transportation plans statewide take into consideration the needs of all users including pedestrians, bicyclists, seniors, people with disabilities and children. This plan is now set to be signed into law.
"I’m very pleased with the Senate's quick action on this legislation," said Byrnes, Chair of the House Transportation Committee. "As with the cottage food legislation, I was able to work across the aisle and across the dome to deliver a meaningful change for Washtenaw County and for Michigan. This legislation is good for the environment, good for the economy and promotes healthier lifestyles for our residents. It’s a win for everyone."
Under the lawmakers' plan, the Michigan Department of Transportation will be required to consider all users of our roads in all phases of road project planning, developing and constructing. The plan will also encourage local units of government to consider Complete Streets principles when updating their master plans. While Complete Streets accommodations may vary between communities, they include sidewalks, bike lanes, special bus lanes, accessible transit stops, frequent crossing opportunities and accessible pedestrian signs.
Complete Streets planning also presents an opportunity to increase the safety and availability of travel options for seniors – a need that will increase as the Baby Boomers age.
"Transportation planning is crucial to revitalizing our downtowns and creating the atmosphere to attract businesses, create jobs and keep our young people here in Michigan," Switalski said. "Providing people with safe alternative travel options will lead to healthier lifestyles and give residents more ways to reach the small businesses that drive our economy. This 'Complete Streets' legislation reflects the bipartisan effort it takes to build a brighter future for Michigan."
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