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Text Amendment_Complete Streets PolicyTHE CITY OF Dui Masterpiece on the Mississippi Dubuque bikli `All America _caC 1 2007 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 tad All-AmedeaCIly 'ellst, 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 Sid AWAHmrlacm 'all's' 2007 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 Streets Partner firms can offer the expertise and dedication you need. 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: Masterpiece on the Mississippi Dubuque halal u�tatntc+ I'll► cM 2007 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