This page is intended to serve as a Complete Streets information clearinghouse.
The NYSAMPO and our partner agencies work with the public and private sector to stay informed of emerging trends, design concepts and activities taking place across New York State and beyond. One trend that is changing the face of transportation, economic development and safety in New York State is the implementation of Complete Streets. Complete Streets are streets for everyone - from pedestrians and bicyclists to public transportation riders and motorists.
A Complete Streets Act was signed into law on August 15, 2011 requiring New York state, county and local agencies to consider access and safety by all roadway users when developing transportation projects that receive state and federal funding (Chapter 398, Laws of New York). See the NYSDOT Complete Streets Homepage for more information.
What are Complete Streets?
The New York State Department of Transportation defines Complete Streets as a "...roadway planned and designed to consider the safe, convenient access and mobility of all roadway users of all ages and abilities. This includes pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, and motorists; it includes children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities..."
Smart Growth America defines Complete Streets as "...streets for everyone." They are designed and operated to prioritize safety, comfort, and access to destinations for all people who use the street...
The U.S. Department of Transportation says Complete Streets "....are streets designed and operated to enable safe use and support mobility for all users. Those include people of all ages and abilities, regardless of whether they are travelling as drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, or public transportation riders..."
Smart Growth America. "Complete Streets". https://smartgrowthamerica.org/what-are-complete-streets/
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Complete Streets can include the following elements - there is no "one-size fits all" approach:
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- Sidewalks, crosswalks, curb extensions, pedestrian signals and other crossing infrastructure -
- Bicycle lanes, sharrows (shared lane markings), cycle tracks, side paths, and shoulders -
- Public transportation routes, bus stop design, and "last mile" pedestrian needs -
- Vehicular travel lane design and roadway operations, including freight -
--Streetscape design including landscape treatments, lighting and signage -
Bicycle Lane & Sidewalk
Cycle Track & Sidewalk
Buffered Bicycle Lane
Textured & Painted Curb Extension
Side Path & Crosswalk
NYSAMPO FACT SHEETS
NYSAMPO Complete Streets Fact Sheet
NYSAMPO Pedestrian and Bicycle Laws Fact Sheet
NYSAMPO E-bikes Fact Sheet
Additional information related to Complete Streets can be found through the following links:
MPO Projects
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New York State Links
NYSDOT Complete Streets Homepage
NYS Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)
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National/Federal Links
American Public Transit Association (APTA) Bicycle and Transit Integration Guide
National Complete Streets Coalition
National Association of City Transportation Officials
American Planning Association Complete Streets Database
Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Complete Streets
USDOT - A Residents Guide for Creating Safe and walkable Communities