Recently I wrote a letter to Congressman Dent urging him to consider supporting the “Complete Streets Act of 2013”. (see below)

What is a complete street? Like many planning concepts it’s best described with photos!

Take this auto-centric roadway:

10 lane roadway without bike lanes, pedestrian crosswalks or signals, street trees, or ample buffer between the roadway and sidewalk. The roadway’s current design is not inviting or safe for pedestrians or bicyclists. Sure it has some token sidewalks which were probably a “feel good” effort to pay some lip service to walkability… but do you think people will actually walk this corridor?

Vs. this street below which accommodates cars and pedestrians

Complete Street example with on-street parking, striped bike lane, and sidewalk with buffers protecting the pedestrian from automobiles. Transit facilities are not provided since service does not occur along this corridor. Note the buildings are built with additional parking in the rear creating a pleasant environment both for cars and pedestrians. In this environment everyone wins whether you choose to walk, ride or drive.

Which of the above is a place you would rather take a stroll with your family to visit a restaurant of shop? We’re currently studying the Hamilton Corridor with the goal of making old 222 into more of a walkable “Main St.” concept. Which photograph above best represents what you would prefer Hamilton Boulevard to be in the future?

Too many of the roads in our country are designed solely with drivers in mind. The risks of such design are evident in the number of pedestrian and bicyclist deaths and injuries we see every year, and often discourage more people from considering other transportation methods.

More resources:

Smart Growth America – What are Complete Streets 

Tour of a “pedestrian friendly” diverging diamond – Designing via checklists and incorporating walkability as a “feel good” afterthought = complete failure. This is one of my absolutely favorite videos.

 My letter to Congressman Dent Re: Complete Streets Act 2013

Congressman Dent,
My name is Ron Beitler and I’m a constituent from Lower Macungie Twp. I’m writing to ask you to support The 2013 Safe Streets Act which is currently in committee.

Millions of Americans are walking, bicycling, and waiting for public transit along roads that are inadequate for their needs. These streets are incomplete – they lack sidewalks, safe space for pedestrians, and make little accommodation for people with disabilities. They hinder healthy, active lifestyles; limit transportation options; and lead to more hard earned money going to fill up the gas tank. Worse, they are often dangerous for everyone.

Currently, the notion of complete streets is a big part of Lower Macungie Townships smart growth planning. Our local Gov’t is currently undertaking comprehensive smart growth planning as well as specific corridor planning. (Hamilton Boulevard). The notion of building complete streets is a central theme in both exercises. Both initiatives have wide reaching public support.

Complete streets are also proven to be economic engines. When a street is accessible it becomes a magnet for commercial activity. Additionally traffic congestion costs us all money. As a proponent for Complete Streets I believe that as a community becomes safer, more attractive, and provide more transportation choices, local economies have a better chance of thriving and property values rise.

Thank you for your time.
Ron Beitler
5540 Lower Macungie Rd.