Momentum is building in Minnesota for Complete Streets—a system of street planning and design that makes getting around safer for everyone, whether they’re driving, walking, biking, taking transit, or in a wheelchair. The Minnesota Complete Streets Coalition now includes more than 50 members—from AARP to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota to Fresh Energy—all working together to promote Complete Streets at the state and local level.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) has also joined the call for Complete Streets. Mn/DOT recently released Complete Streets Report that recommends the implementation of a Mn/DOT Complete Streets policy. Mn/DOT Commissioner Thomas Sorel is championing the effort and has initiated a partnership of state agencies, local governments, and other stakeholders to move forward.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Legislature is also stepping up. Senator Tony Lourey (Kerrick) and Representative Mike Obermueller (Eagan) will introduce legislation for a state Complete Streets policy at the beginning of the legislative session in February. The bill, summarized here, will

• make Complete Streets a state policy for road construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation projects,
• involve stakeholders to help Mn/DOT implement Complete Streets,
• ask Mn/DOT to report back on implementation, and
• assist local communities interested in Complete Streets by creating a three-year pilot program that offers a more flexible alternative to current standards that govern state-funded city and county road design.

A state Complete Streets policy will help state and local planners and engineers build and repair roads in ways that are safer for all users regardless of how they get around.

Momentum is building in Minnesota for Complete Streets—a system of street planning and design that makes getting around safer for