Text Amendment_Complete Streets PolicyTHE CITY OF
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TO: Zoning Advisory Commission
FROM: Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
SUBJECT: Amendment to the Unified Development Code: Complete Streets Policy
DATE: December 15, 2011
INTRODUCTION
The City Council, at their April 4, 2011 meeting, adopted a Complete Streets Policy for
the City of Dubuque. This proposed amendment incorporates the Complete Streets
Policy into the Unified Development Code, as part of Section 11 Land Subdivision.
Complete Streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users.
Pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders of all ages and abilities, must be able to safely
move along and across a Complete Streets. Complete Streets make it easy to cross
streets, walk to shops, and bicycle to work. They allow buses to run on time and make
it safe for people to walk.
DISCUSSION
There is no one single design for a complete street. Each street is unique and responds
to the area and the needs of the neighborhood. A complete street may include
sidewalks, bike lanes, special bus lanes, accessible public transportation stops,
frequent and safe crossing opportunities, median islands, accessible pedestrian signals,
curb extensions and narrower travel lanes.
The City of Dubuque has utilized many of the components of complete streets in
development projects. The City has long required sidewalks. With the proposed
Complete Streets Policy incorporated into the Unified Development Code, it will become
a standard component of subdivision review the same way connections to City utilities
are reviewed. Each new subdivision that includes a public street will be reviewed in
terms of the Complete Streets Policy.
It is important to note that, as part of the Complete Streets Policy, the design and
construction of new facilities will be done to the best and currently available standards
and guidelines for Complete Streets. In addition, it is recognized that topography, costs
and right -of -way constraints are among the factors that may cause a proposed
candidate for compliance with the Complete Streets Policy.
Memo to Zoning Advisory Commission
Amendment to the Unified Development Code: Complete Streets Policy
Page 2
Additional information on Complete Streets, including a discussion of the City's adopted
policy and letters of support, are attached for your consideration.
RECOMMENDATION
Planning Services staff recommends that the Zoning Advisory Commission review the
proposed information on the proposed amendment to the Unified Development Code to
incorporate a Complete Streets Policy, and then make a recommendation to the City
Council.
Attachments
Prepared by Kyle L. Kritz, Associate Planner
cc: Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer
f:\ users \mrettenb \wp \commissions\zac \complete streets udc amendment memo to zac.doc
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Complete Streets Policy
DATE: March 28, 2011
Dubuque
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All-AmedeaCIly
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2007
Planning Services Manager Laura Carstens and City Engineer Gus Psihoyos
recommend City Council approval of a Complete Streets Policy for the City of Dubuque.
The proposed City of Dubuque Complete Streets Policy ensures that consideration is
given such that the entire right -of -way is designed and operated to enable safe access
for all users, recognizing fiscal and physical limitations.
Complete Streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users.
Pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists of all ages and abilities are able to
move safely along and across a Complete Street.
The benefits of Complete Streets are that they increase the capacity and efficiency of
the road network, reduce traffic congestion, improve mobility options, limit greenhouse
gas emissions, and improve the general quality of life. Promoting pedestrian, bicycle
and public transportation travel as an alternative to the automobile reduces negative
environmental impacts, promotes healthy living and is less costly to the commuter.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Michael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Laura Carstens, Planning Service er
Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer •
SUBJECT: Complete Streets Policy
DATE: March 28, 2011
Dubuque
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INTRODUCTION
This memorandum transmits a resolution setting forth a Complete Streets Policy for the City
of Dubuque. The proposed City policy is based partially on the Complete Streets Policy
adopted in March 2010 by the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS)
Policy Committee. Adoption of a City Complete Streets Policy was a City Council referral
from the Environmental Stewardship Advisory Commission to the City Manager at their
December 6, 2010 meeting. Related materials are enclosed.
DISCUSSION
Complete Streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users.
Pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists of all ages and abilities are able to move
safely along and across a complete street.
The benefits of Complete Streets are that they: increase the capacity and efficiency of the
road network, reduce traffic congestion, improve mobility options, limit greenhouse gas
emissions, and improve the general quality of life. Promoting pedestrian, bicycle and public
transportation travel as an alternative to the automobile reduces negative environmental
impacts, promotes healthy living and is less costly to the commuter.
Complete Streets are supported in a number of local plans and City projects.
> Complete Streets is a goal in both the Community Design and Reasonable Mobility
principles of the Sustainable Dubuque Plan.
> The City's 2009 Unified Development Code (UDC) includes a "place holder"
reference to a Complete Streets Policy in Article 11: Land Subdivision.
> The Dubuque Region Smart Planning Project supports the diversity of transportation
options available through Complete Streets and exemplified by the City of
Dubuque's Complete Streets Model in the Historic Millwork District.
> The City Council has directed staff to evaluate and incorporate Complete Streets
design into future East -West Corridor improvements.
Complete Streets Policy
Page 2
The 2008 Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan includes a goal to
advocate for adoption of "Complete Streets" policies by cities and counties in the tri -state
area. This Trail Plan was adopted by the DMATS Policy Committee in August, 2008 and by
the City of Dubuque in May, 2009. Dubuque was the first city in the metropolitan area to
adopt the Trail Plan, and has referenced the Plan when developing street projects or trail
grant applications. The Tri -State Trail Plan states:
"The development of a "Complete Streets" concept provides for people - friendly
streets, paths, trails and activity centers available to everyone, and supports
sustainable community development. Walking, biking or hiking instead of driving can
reduce traffic congestion, vehicle exhaust emissions, noise and energy consumption.
The individual health benefits are evident."
RECOMMENDATION
City Planning and Engineering staff worked with local Complete Streets advocates, Tri -
State Trail Vision, Proudly Accessible Dubuque and Green Dubuque, as well as two City
boards -- the Environmental Stewardship Advisory Commission and the Long Range
Planning Advisory Commission, to develop the proposed City of Dubuque Complete Streets
Policy. The DMATS policy is the basis for the proposed City policy to provide for continuity
in transportation projects.
The proposed Complete Streets Policy reflects the relationship of the Complete Streets
Policy to the Dubuque Region Smart Planning Project, the City's Comprehensive Plan, the
Sustainable Dubuque Plan, and the Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking
Network Plan.
The proposed Complete Streets Policy provides an integrated multimodal approach
to roadway planning and design. The Policy establishes that development of as many street
projects as possible will be done in an affordable, balanced, responsible, and equitable way
that accommodates and encourages travel by motorists, bicyclists, public transit vehicles
and their passengers, and pedestrians of all ages and abilities. Since City street
maintenance projects do not significantly alter the geometry, they would not be subject to
this policy.
City street maintenance projects are done by the Public Works Department. These projects
are limited in scope to an overlay less than 2" in thickness and also can include spot
manhole repairs and storm sewer intake repairs. The Engineering Department gets involved
in more expansive projects, such as full depth reconstruction projects; major overlay
projects of collector and arterial streets; and significant storm, sanitary sewer and water
main repairs and replacement. These larger projects may offer an opportunity for vehicular
signs, crosswalks, and other improvements related to Complete Streets design.
The proposed Complete Streets Policy also ensures that future demand and context
sensitivity is integrated into new facilities, recognizing that topography, cost, and right -of-
way constraints are among the limiting factors and that not every project is a candidate for
this desired outcome.
Complete Streets Policy
Page 3
The Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF) historically has been used for either public improvements
or existing street maintenance. In the past five years, the annual funding allocation has
been insufficient to offset the increased material and operational costs. Therefore, the City
has had to prioritize, postpone, and redirect the RUTF monies to those projects of greatest
need.
The proposed Policy also includes language regarding the review of street projects for
consistency with the Tri -State Trail Plan, posting annual street projects for public input, and
documentation of project- specific exemptions.
The Complete Streets policy allows for project- specific exemptions to be approved by the
City Council, or the City Manager where a project does not come before the City Council.
Letters of support for adoption of the proposed Complete Streets Policy for the City of
Dubuque are enclosed. Adoption of a Complete Streets Policy also is an important step for
Dubuque to be designated as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American
Bicyclists.
REQUESTED ACTION
The proposed City of Dubuque Complete Streets Policy ensures that consideration is given
such that the entire right -of -way is designed and operated to enable safe access for all
users, recognizing fiscal and physical limitations. It also ensures that consideration is given
such that all road projects result in a Complete Street design that is affordable as well as
appropriate to local context and needs, again recognizing fiscal and physical limitations.
The proposed Policy also provides for public input and documentation of project- specific
exemptions.
The proposed Complete Streets Policy will further Dubuque's commitment to sustainability.
Also, it formalizes a number of City plans, projects, and initiatives that support Complete
Streets. Finally, it is supported by a range of community stakeholders.
The requested action is adoption of the proposed Complete Streets Policy for the City of
Dubuque.
Enclosures
cc: Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Don Vogt, Public Works Director
Jon Dienst, Civil Engineer
Cori Burbach, Sustainability Coordinator
F:IUSERS\LCARSTENIWPIComplete Streets \City Council reveiw of Policy \Complete Streets Policy Memo MVM 03 28 11.doc
Prepared by: Laura Carstens, City Planner Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589 -4210
Return to: Kevin Firnstahl, City Clerk Address: City Hall- 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589 -4121
ORDINANCE NO. 1- 12
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 16 OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE CODE OF
ORDINANCES, UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE, BY AMENDING ARTICLE 11 LAND
SUBDIVISION TO ADD COMPLETE STREETS POLICY LANGUAGE.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. That Title 16 of the City of Dubuque Code of Ordinances, Unified
Development Code, Article 11 -15(K) is hereby amended as follows:
K. Complete Streets Policy
1. General: The City's Comprehensive Plan supports the development of a
comprehensive bike /hike trail system to provide multi -modal transportation
for the City. Streets that are designed for only cars limit transportation
choices by making walking, bicycling and taking public transportation
inconvenient, unattractive and potentially dangerous. The City currently
implements curb ramp, sidewalk, signage and trail projects that support the
implementation of Complete Street design. The City's Complete Streets
Policy will take into account the potential for additional cost associated
with the construction of Complete Streets and recognizes that not every
new public street will be suitable for implementing all aspects of Complete
Street design. Planning staff will review application of Complete Street
design as part of the major subdivision review process.
2. Complete Street Design Goals:
a. Design and construct new streets in anticipation of increased demand
for bicycling, walking and transit facilities.
b. Design and construct new streets that allow for future improvements
to accommodate Complete Street design attributes, such as provision
of extra right -of -way to accommodate an off- street bike trail in the
future.
c. New public streets that implement all or some components of
Complete Street design shall utilizes standards found in the following
design guidelines:
i. AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials)
ii. SUDAS (Statewide Urban Design and Specifications Program)
iii. Federal Highway Administration
iv. ITE (Institute of Transportation Engineers)
3. Complete Street Applications:
a. Most collector and arterial streets are constructed /reconstructed by
the City of Dubuque and hence application of Complete Street design
criteria will be handled through the City's internal design and approval
process.
b. Local residential streets in most new residential subdivisions will
incorporate some Complete Street design criteria, such as sidewalks
on both sides of the street, curb ramps at intersection corners, etc.
c. Collector streets within new subdivision, in addition to above, may
restrict driveway access to side streets to facilitate on- street bike
trails, could include wide sidewalks and parkways to facilitate
walking.
Section 2. The foregoing amendment has heretofore been reviewed by the Zoning
Advisory Commission of the City of Dubuque, Iowa.
Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon publication, as provided
by law.
Passed, approved and adopted this 17th day of January 2012.
Attest:
Kevi S. Firnstahl, City Cler
OFFICIAL Urban Design
PUEB.ICATIGN Specifications Pro-
GRDINANCE 110.1-12 gra'm) Highway
AN AR®1NANCE Ad l- eer Federal
AMEN®1NG TITLE 16 ;iv. ITE Institute of.
GF T11E' C1TY OF DU-
:IF)
U Tr iv. ITE at on Engi
EUQUE CODE OF OR-
CINANCES, UNIFIED
® Ell ELOPMENT
E, BY AMEN®ING
A CODICLE 11 ND
SUBDIVISION TO ADD
COMPLETE STREETS
POLICY :LANGUAGE.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE
IT ORDAINED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DUBUQUE, 1.0-
WA:
Section 1. That Title
16 of the City of Dubu-
que Code of Ordinan-
ces, Unified Develop-
ment Code, Article 11-
15(K) is hereby amend-
ed as follows:
K. Complete Streets
Policy
1. General: The City's
Comprehensive Plan
supports the develop-
ment of a comprehen-
sive bike/hike trail sys-
tem to' provide multi-
modal transportation
for the City Streets
that are designed for
only cars limit'trans-
portation choices by
making walking, bicy
cling and taking public
transportation 'mcon ng amendment has
venient, unattractive ing amee be
as
and potentially danger- hereto by the Zoning
ous. The City currently iews Advisory Commission
implements curb' ramp, of the City of Dubuque,
sidewalk, signage and owe
trail projects that sup- Sectiona3. This ordi-
port the pl to Street nance shal take effect
tion of Complete Street ,Immediately upon pub -
design. The City's Com libation, as provided by
plete Streets Policy will taw
take into account the passed, approved and
potential for additional adopted this 17th
dad
cost associated with of adopted
2012.
the construction of /s/Ric W. Jones,
Mayor Pro Tem
Attest: /s/Kevin S.
Firnstahl, City(Clerk
Published officially in
the Telegraph Herald
Newspaper on the 20th
day of January 2012.
/s/Kevin S. Firnstahl,
City Clerk
veers)
3. Complete Street
Applications:
a. Most collector and
arterial streets are
constructed/reconstru
cted by the City of Du-
buque and hence appli-
cation
pply
cation of Complete
Street design criteria
will be handled
through the City's in-
ternal design and
proval process.
b. Local residential
streets in most new
residential subdivi-
sions will incorporate
some Complete Street
design criteria, such as
sidewalks on both
sides of the street,
curb ramps at intersec-
tion corners, etc.
c. Collector streets
within new subdivision,
in addition to above,
may restrict driveway
access to' side streets
to facilitate on -street
bike trails could iin-
clude wide sidewalks
and parkways to facili-
tate walking.
Section 2. The forego -
Complete Streets and
recognizes that not ev-
ery new public street
will be suitable for im-
plementing all aspects
of Complete Street de-
sign. Planning staff will
review application of
Complete Street design
as part of the major
subdivision review
process.
2. Complete Street
Design Goals:
a. Design and con-
struct new streets in
anticipation of in-
creased demand for bi-
cycling, walking and
transit facilities.
b. Design and con-
struct new streets that
allow for future im-
provements to accom-
modate Complete
Street design attrib-
utes, such as provision
of extra right-of-way to
accommodate an off-
street bike trail in the
future.
c, New public streets
that implement all or
some components of
Complete Street design
shall utilizes standards
found in the following
design guidelines:
i. AASHTO (American
Association of State
Highway and Transpor-
tation Officials)
1/20
STATE OF IOWA {SS:
DUBUQUE COUNTY
CERTIFICATION OF PUBLICATION
I, Suzanne Pike, a Billing Clerk for Woodward Communications, Inc., an Iowa
corporation, publisher of the Telegraph Herald,a newspaper of general circulation
published in the City of Dubuque, County of Dubuque and State of Iowa; hereby
certify that the attached notice was published in said newspaper on the following
dates: January 20, 2012, and for which the charge is $34.36.
Subscribed to before me a Notary Public in and for Dubuque County, Iowa,
this a69 day o > : ; ° , 20 /ca.- .
Notary Public in and for Dubuque County, Iowa.
Prepared by: Laura Carstens, City Planner Address: City Hall 50 W. 13th St Dubuque. IA 52001 Telephone: 589 -4210
Return to: Jeanne Schneider, City Clerk Address: City Hall 50 W. 13th St Dubuque IA 52001 Telephone: 589 -4121
RESOLUTION NO. 124 11
RESOLUTION ADOPTING A COMPLETE STREETS POLICY
Whereas, Complete Streets promotes streets that are safe and convenient for all
users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, and motor vehicle
drivers of all ages and abilities; and
Whereas, streets that support and invite multiple uses, including safe, active, and
ample space for pedestrians, bicycles, and public transportation, are more conducive to the
public life and efficient movement of people than streets designed primarily to move
automobiles and trucks; and
Whereas, promoting pedestrian, bicycle and public transportation travel as an
alternative to the automobile reduces negative environmental impacts, promotes healthy
living and is less costly to the commuter; and
Whereas, full integration of all modes in the design of streets and highways, with
safety in equal measure for each mode of travel, will increase the capacity and efficiency of
the road network, reduce traffic congestion by improving mobility options, limiting
greenhouse gas emissions, and improving the general quality of life; and
Whereas, studies have found that providing more travel options, including public
transit, bicycling and walking facilities, is an important element in reducing congestion; and
Whereas, the Federal Highway Administration has confirmed that designing the
street with pedestrians of all ages and abilities in mind significantly reduces pedestrian risk;
and
Whereas, the development of a more complete transportation network will eliminate
hazards and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists of all ages and abilities, who now
make up more than 12 percent of all traffic fatalities; and
Resolution No. _ -11
Page 2
Whereas, the design and construction of new facilities should anticipate future
demand for bicycling, walking, and other alternative transportation facilities and not preclude
the provision of future improvements; and
Whereas, Complete Streets are supported by the Institute of Traffic Engineers,
American Planning Association, and other transportation, planning, and public health
professionals; and
Whereas, implementation of Complete Streets policies can create immediate jobs
through labor- intensive and small -scale projects, many of which can be accomplished in a
limited timeframe; and
Whereas, Complete Streets projects can do more to aid economic recovery than
provide individual jobs: they can help create complete transportation networks that provide
Americans with transportation choices that are easier on their wallets; and
Whereas, the Dubuque Region Smart Planning Project supports the diversity of
transportation options available through Complete Streets and exemplified by the City of
Dubuque's Complete Streets Model in the Historic Millwork District; and
Whereas, the City's Comprehensive Plan supports development of a comprehensive
bike /hike trail system to provide multi -modal transportation for the city; and
Whereas, Complete Streets is a goal for both the Community Design and
Reasonable Mobility principles of the Sustainable Dubuque Plan; and
Whereas, the City of Dubuque was the first city in the metropolitan area to adopt the
2008 Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan, which advocates for
the adoption of Complete Streets policies by cities and counties in the Tri -State area; and
Whereas, the City annually will evaluate planned street projects for their relationship
to the Implementation Plan of the 2008 Tri -State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking
Network Plan; and
Whereas, street maintenance projects do not significantly alter the geometry, and
therefore would not be subject to this policy; and
Whereas, the City currently implements curb ramp, sidewalk, signage, and trail
projects that support Complete Streets concepts; and
Whereas, the implementation of the Complete Streets Policy will take into
consideration additional construction costs, recognizing that not every project is a candidate
for this desired outcome; and
Whereas, the City will post the annual street construction, reconstruction and overlay
projects on the City website and on file at City Hall so that any interested parties can review
and comment on the planned improvements; and
Resolution No. _ -11
Page 3
Whereas, the City will document the basis for project- specific exemptions from the
Complete Street Policy, such as topography, right -of -way constraints, cost, or other factors.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. The City Council does hereby adopt a Complete Streets Policy, as
follows:
1. Develop as many street projects as possible in an affordable, balanced,
responsible, and equitable way that accommodates and encourages travel by
motorists, bicyclists, public transit vehicles and their passengers, and
pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
2. Design and construct new facilities in anticipation of likely future demand for
bicycling, walking and transit facilities and not preclude the provision of future
improvements.
3. Design and construct new facilities to the best currently available standards
and guidelines for Complete Streets and Context - Sensitive Design,
recognizing that topography, cost, and right -of -way constraints are among the
limiting factors and that not every project is a candidate for this desired
outcome.
4. City street maintenance projects are not subject to this policy.
Section 2. This Complete Streets policy shall allow for project- specific exemptions to
be approved by the City Council, or the City Manager where a project does not come before
the City Council.
Atte t:
Passed, approved and adopted this 4thday of April 2011.
eanne F. Schneider, City Clerk
Roy D. uol, Mayor
F: \USERS \LCARSTEN \WP \Complete Streets \City Council reveiw of Policy \City of Dubuque Complete Streets Policy Resolution
Draft 03 25 11.docx
Complete Streets » Complete Streets FAQ Page 1 of 2
What are "Complete Streets" and Complete Streets policies?
Complete Streets are streets for everyone. They are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users. Pedestrians, bicyclists,
motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities must be able to safely move along and across a complete street. Complete Streets
make it easy to cross the street, walk to shops, and bicycle to work. They allow buses to run on time and make it safe for people to
walk to and from train stations.
Creating complete streets means transportation agencies must change their approach to community roads.By adopting a Complete
Streets policy, communities direct their transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way
to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation. This means that every transportation project
will make the street network better and safer for drivers, transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists - making your town a better place to
live. The National Complete Streets Coalition has identified the elements of an ideal Complete Streets policy to help you write one for
your town.
What does a "complete street" look like?
There is no singular design prescription for Complete Streets; each one is unique and responds to its community context. A complete
street may include: sidewalks, bike lanes (or wide paved shoulders), special bus lanes, comfortable and accessible public transportation
stops, frequent and safe crossing opportunities, median islands, accessible pedestrian signals, curb extensions, narrower travel lanes,
roundabouts, and more.
A complete street in a rural area will look quite different from a complete street in a highly urban area, but both are designed to
balance safety and convenience for everyone using the road. Check out our `Many Types of Complete Streets' slideshow to see
examples from across the country.
Why do we need Complete Streets policies?
Incomplete streets - those designed with only cars in mind - limit transportation choices by making walking, bicycling, and taking public
transportation inconvenient, unattractive, and, too often, dangerous. Changing policy so that our transportation system routinely
includes the needs of people on foot, public transportation, and bicycles means that walking, riding bikes, and riding buses and trains
will be safer and easier. People of all ages and abilities will have more options when traveling to work, to school, to the grocery store,
and to visit family.
Making these travel choices more convenient, attractive, and safe means people do not need to rely solely on automobiles. They can
replace congestion - clogged trips in their cars with swift bus rides or heart - healthy bicycle trips. Complete Streets improves the
efficiency and capacity of existing roads too, by moving people in the same amount of space - just think of all the people who can fit on
a bus or streetcar versus the same amount of people each driving their own car. Getting more productivity out of the existing road and
public transportation systems is vital to reducing congestion.
Complete Streets are particularly prudent when more communities are tightening their budgets and looking to ensure long -term
benefits from investments. An existing transportation budget can incorporate Complete Streets projects with little to no additional
funding, accomplished through re- prioritizing projects and allocating funds to projects that improve overall mobility. Many of the ways
to create more complete roadways are low cost, fast to implement, and high impact. Building more sidewalks and striping bike lanes
has been shown to create more jobs than traditional car - focused transportation projects.
Where are complete streets being built?
Many states and cities have adopted bike plans or pedestrian plans that designate some streets as corridors for improvements for
bicycling and walking. More and more, communities are going beyond this to ensure that every street project takes all road users into
account.
Among the places with some form of complete streets policy are the states of Oregon, California, Illinois, North Carolina, Minnesota,
Connecticut, and Florida. The City of Santa Barbara, California calls for "achieving equality of convenience and choice" for pedestrians,
bicyclists, transit users, and drivers. Columbia, Missouri adopted new street standards to encourage healthy bicycling and walking. And
the regional body that allocates federal transportation dollars around Columbus, Ohio has directed all projects provide for people on
foot, bicycle, and public transportation. Check our interactive atlas to see all the jurisdictions that have formally committed to the
Complete Streets approach.
What are some of the benefits of Complete Streets?
Complete streets can offer many benefits in all communities, regardless of size or location. The National Complete Streets Coalition has
developed a number of fact sheets which are available through our website.
Complete Streets improve safety. A Federal Highways Administration safety review found that streets designed with sidewalks, raised
medians, better bus stop placement, traffic - calming measures, and treatments for disabled travelers improve pedestrian safety. Some
http: / /www.completestreets.org /complete- streets - fundamentals /complete - streets -faq/ 04/14/2011
Complete Streets » Complete Streets FAQ Page 2 of 2
features, such as medians, improve safety for all users: they enable pedestrians to cross busy roads in two stages, reduce left - turning
motorist crashes to zero, and improve bicycle safety.
Complete Streets encourage walking and bicycling for health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently named adoption
of Complete Streets policies as a recommended strategy to prevent obesity. One study found that 43% of people with safe places to
walk within 10 minutes of home met recommended activity levels; among individuals without safe place to walk, just 27% were active
enough. Easy access to transit can also contribute to healthy physical activity: nearly one third of transit users meet the Surgeon
General's recommendations for minimum daily exercise through their daily travels.
Complete Streets can lower transportation costs for families. Americans spent an average of 18 cents of every dollar on transportation,
with the poorest fifth of families spending more than double that figure. In fact, most families spend far more on transportation than
on food. When residents have the opportunity to walk, bike, or take transit, they have More control over their expenses by replacing
car trips with these inexpensive options. Taking public transportation, for example, saves individuals $9,581 each year.
Complete Streets foster strong communities. Complete Streets play an important role in Livable communities, where all people -
regardless of age, ability or mode of transportation - feel safe and welcome on the roadways. A safe walking and bicycling environment
is an essential part of improving public transportation and creating friendly, walkable communities. A recent study found that people
who live in walkable communities are more likely to be socially engaged and trusting than residents of less walkable neighborhoods.
Additionally, they reported being in better health and happier more often.
Flow can I get a Complete Streets policy adopted in my community?
Advocating for Complete Streets means working with your neighbors and local policymakers, including elected officials and government
staff.
Talk with them about particularly problematic and unsafe streets: schools that have no sidewalks out front, bus stops that are not
accessible for people in wheelchairs, missing crosswalks by the grocery store, and no safe routes to bicycle to work. Work together to
identify ways to make these places safer and more attractive and present your ideas to others. Make your case and show examples of
what your streets could like. For great strategy ideas, check out the free "Power of 25" presentation made by Peter Lagerwey.
This website has many resources to help you. You can modify and use our introductory presentation in your community, show it at PTA
and neighborhood association meetings and to your local chamber of commerce. See the Changina Policy tab for information on
developing a good policy and finding other local advocates. We also have answers to many questions on how to implement a policy.
The National Complete Streets Coalition offers interactive full -day workshops led by national experts to help communities establish a
common vision for their streets; develop an appropriate Complete Streets policy that builds on local expertise; and implement
Complete Streets policies by identifying ways to change and streamline the everyday transportation decision - making process.
Need transportation planning and engineering professionals who are ready to help design and construct complete streets? Our Complete
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http: / /www.eompletestreets.org/ complete - streets - fundamentals /complete- streets -faq/ 04/14/2011
March 14, 2011
Honorable Mayor Roy Buol and
City Council Members
City Hall
50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque IA 52001
Dear Mr. Mayor and Council Members:
The Environmental Stewardship Advisory Commission reviewed and discussed the
Complete Streets Policy at the March 10, 2011 Environmental Stewardship Advisory
Commission meeting. Laura Carstens, City Planner, and Jon Dienst, Engineering
Department, reviewed and discussed the draft policy.
The Commission voted to approve the Policy and recommend the City Council adopt
the Complete Streets Policy for the City of Dubuque.
We thank you for considering the Complete Streets Policy and believe it is a
comprehensive balanced approach to improving the streets and transportation in the
city of Dubuque. We recommend you adopt the Complete Streets Policy.
Singerely,
a
Wayne Klostermann, Chair
Environmental Stewardship Advisory Commission
March 22, 2011
To whom it may concern,
Green Dubuque, Inc.
Green Dubuque, Inc.
1640 Lawndale St.
Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone: (207) 944 -0021
www.greendubuque.org
On behalf of Green Dubuque, Inc., I am honored to submit this letter of support for the proposed
Complete Streets policy for the City of Dubuque.
Green Dubuque is a volunteer -run group of young professionals committed to addressing
sustainability challenges through local grassroots action. To that end, over the past two years
we have conducted extensive research on the potential impact of Complete Streets in Dubuque,
culminating in the report The Cost of Incomplete Streets in Dubuque.
Complete Streets is a planning and design process that ensures that all phases of road project
planning consider the health, safety, and mobility of all transportation users, including motorists,
pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, commercial vehicles, and people of all ages and abilities.
With an aging population, a growing obesity crisis, and the rising costs and liabilities of oil, the
opportunity to reduce our dependence on automobiles is too important to ignore.
Complete Streets is not a revolutionary concept; it is simply thorough planning and design. The
key difference between Complete Streets and conventional planning is that instead of considering
non - automobile accommodations to be "extra" projects, Complete Streets accommodates all
users by default, and those accommodations are only excluded due to: 1) lack of need, 2)
excessive cost, or 3) where certain transportation modes are illegal (e.g. bicycles on freeways).
Complete Streets is also not about favoring one transportation mode over another; it is about
ensuring that all modes are safe for those who choose them as well as for those who have no
choice, such as people who cannot afford vehicles, individuals with disabilities, or young people
and seniors who cannot rely on cars. Among these and other groups, we have estimated that up
to 25% of Dubuque residents are inadequately served by conventional transportation and
struggle every day to reach workplaces, shopping, medical care, and other essential destinations.
Complete Streets also can boost local commerce, help address the obesity crisis by facilitating
active lifestyles, and significantly improve local air quality, thereby saving Dubuque millions of
dollars every year in preventable health care costs and lost work productivity.
Complete Streets has been adopted in 183 localities and 21 states, including Iowa City, Des
Moines, and Cascade as well as Iowa's border states of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota.
Complete Streets is a successful and established design process, and I urge you to support its
adoption in Dubuque and take an important step toward a safer, healthier, more sustainable city.
Sincerely,
Jason Schatz
President, Green Dubuque, Inc.
March 23, 2011
TO: Laura Carstens
Planning Services Manager
City of Dubuque
30 West 13th Street
Dubuque, Iowa 52001
RE: Complete Streets and Context Sensitive Design Policy
Dear Laura:
The mission of Proudly Accessible Dubuque (PAD) is to serve and empower
people with disabilities; manage the affairs of sustainable projects by and for
people with disabilities; and to build awareness through educating the public and
assisting businesses to improve accessibility for all. The Complete Streets and
Context Sensitive Design Policy proposed by the City of Dubuque is yet another
avenue to ensuring that our mission is achieved.
PAD is pleased to support the Complete Streets and Context Sensitive Design
Policy and encourages the City of Dubuque to continue to examine, refine and
improve their policies, procedures and standards to make Dubuque accessible
for all of its citizens and visitors.
Sincerely,
Katrina Wilberding
Executive Director
P.O.Oox 902 Dubuque. IA 52004.0902.563- 560 7357 • www .proudlyaccessibledubuque.com
Planning Services Department
City Hall
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001 -4864
(563) 589-4210 phone
(563) 589-4221 fax
(563) 690 -6678 TDD
planning @cityofdubuque.org
The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
City of Dubuque
City Hall — 50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque IA 52001
RE: Complete Streets Policy for the City of Dubuque
Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
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March 25, 2011
The Long Range Planning Advisory Commission has reviewed and discussed a
proposed Complete Streets Policy for the City of Dubuque. The Commission also has
viewed a presentation on Complete Streets. The Commission previously has
recommended that the City Council adopt a Complete Streets Policy based on our
finding that Complete Streets are consistent with the 2008 Dubuque Comprehensive
Plan.
The Commission appreciates that the proposed Complete Streets Policy reflects its
relationship to the City's Comprehensive Plan, the Sustainable Dubuque Plan, and the
Tri -State Trail Plan. The Commission suggested that the Policy also reference the
Dubuque Region Smart Planning Project's support of Complete Streets, which
references the Historic Millwork District Complete Streets model project. This change
has been made in the Policy.
The Long Range Planning Advisory Commission finds that the proposed Complete
Streets Policy is consistent with the 2008 Dubuque Comprehensive Plan and
recommends that the City Council adopt the Complete Streets Policy for Dubuque.
Respectfully submitted,
James Prochaska, Chairperson
Long Range Planning Advisory Commission
F:\USERS \LCARSTEN \WP \Complete Streets \LRPAC Complete Streets CC Letter #2.doc
Service People Integrity Responsibility Innovation Teamwork
SIERRA.
CLUB
FOUNDED 1892 IOWA CELAII't1;R
City Council
April 2011
The executive committee of the White Pine Group of the Sierra Club has directed me to write
you in support of a complete streets policy for the city of Dubuque. Such a policy should require
that when ever a street is redesigned it should take into account pedestrian, bicycle and mass
transit traffic as well as cars and trucks, The preferred policy would require an explanation as to
why or why not this was taken into account for a particular project. Overlay projects should
explain why or why not street makings for pedestrians and/or bicycles were recommended.
Complete streets is part of the DMATS trail plan. In order for Dubuque to obtain Bicycle
Friendly status ,a complete streets policy would need to be enacted. Finally, the transportation
component of the regional smart planning grant which Dubuque is a part is based on a complete
streets policy.
The White Pine Group of the Sierra Club requests the city council to adopt a strong complete
streets policy as spelled out above.
Charles Winterwood
Chair
White Pine.Group of the Sierra Club
Dubuque.Iowa
3839 Merle Bay Road, Suite 280, Des Moines, IA 50310 Tel: 515 -277 -8868 iowa.chapter@sierraclub.org
March 24, 2011
Ms. Laura Carstens
Planning Services Manager
City of Dubuque
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001 -4864
Dear Ms. Carstens:
Please accept this letter of support from Tri -State Trail Vision for the adoption of the current
draft of the City of Dubuque Complete Streets Policy Resolution by the Dubuque City Council.
Tri -State Trail Vision was formed from the Envision 2010 (Ten Community Projects by 2010)
community visioning effort. Our mission is to develop an integrated trail system to enhance the
life of the residents in the Tri -State region. As a non - profit organization, Tri -State Trail Vision
has been actively involved in the creation and implementation of the 2008 Tri -State Area
Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan adopted by the City of Dubuque.
There are a growing number of federal and state transportation policies that encourage the
routine accommodation of bicyclists, pedestrians and persons with disabilities in all
transportation projects. Federal and State agencies have adopted guidelines to promote the
regular inclusion of non - motorized transportation improvements in both new and rehabilitation
project planning, design, funding, and construction.
The concepts and principles of "Complete Streets" builds on existing policies and guidelines to
ensure that all users of the transportation system, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit
users, as well as children, older individuals, and individuals with disabilities, are able to travel
safely and conveniently on streets and highways.
The adoption of a Complete Streets ordinance is consistent with DMATS policy and will provide
benefits to the City and citizens, including:
• Improved safety
• Greater opportunities for walking and bicycling
• Improved air quality
• Safer access to schools for children
We urge the City of Dubuque City Council to adopt the Complete Streets Policy Resolution, as
currently drafted.
City of Dubuque
Complete Streets Policy Resolution
March 24, 2011
Page 2 of 2
Sincerely,
Tony Zelinskas, President
Tri -State Trail Vision