Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Complete Streets

Which Places Have the Best Complete Streets Policies?

3:30 PM EDT on April 27, 2011

With adoptions in more than 200 localities and 23 states, complete streets policies have nearly doubled in number every year over the last three, according to a new report by the National Complete Streets Coalition.

Of course, all policies aren't created equal, and the coalition separates the strongest -- those that can serve as models for upcoming states and municipalities -- from the less ambitious. Its top ten, representing cities, counties and states of varying sizes and geographic regions, appears after the jump.

These jurisdictions were recognized based on their adherence to a set of best practices. Outstanding policies were credited for aiming to create integrated networks for a variety of modes. They also received credit for demonstrating a clear intent to cover all roads. In addition, standouts included a set of "next steps" for implementing their vision, among other criteria.

“Recent polls show that voters’ top priority for infrastructure investments are safer streets for our communities and children,” writes Barbara McCann, coalition executive director. Policies recognized by the group were adopted by:

    • New Jersey Department of Transportation
    • Louisiana Department of Transportation
    • State of Minnesota
    • State of Connecticut
    • Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (Columbus)
    • Bloomington/Monroe County, IN Metropolitan Planning Organization
    • Hennepin County, MN
    • Lee County, FL
    • Salt Lake County, UT
    • Crystal City, MO
    • Roanoke, VA
    • Missoula, MT
    • Herculaneum, MO
    • New Haven, CT
    • Tacoma, WA

The authors are careful to note that their rankings are based only on the quality of the policy, and not on successful implementation. The coalition will examine that issue in an upcoming report.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

To Help Save the Planet, Take the ‘Week Without Driving’ Challenge

Sierra Club President Ramón Cruz is urging Americans to give up driving for seven days — and support policies to make it optional for everyone.

September 29, 2023

Friday’s Headlines Are Charged Up

Expect a lot fewer ordinary gas stations and a few more Buc-ee's in your area as the electric vehicle transition continues.

September 29, 2023

Talking Headways Podcast: Beyond Greenways

This week we’re joined by Bob Searns to talk about his new book and grand ideas for walking trails that circle whole regions and more local routes that make up a new mode of green infrastructure in cities.

September 28, 2023

Thursday’s Headlines Are Inside Out

Cars and trucks are getting safer for drivers and passengers, but people outside the vehicles are increasingly in danger.

September 28, 2023

New Federal Committee Will Push for Transportation Equity By Helping DOT Reckon With Its Past

“No one alive today is necessarily responsible for the origins of the [transportation] inequities that we inherited. But everybody who was alive today and in a position of responsibility, is accountable for what we do about it. That's why we're here.” 

September 28, 2023
See all posts