Complete Streets Policy

The policy was adopted by the City Council at their regular meeting held on October 18, 2016.

Introduction

The goal of complete streets is a transportation system that is accessible, equitable, and adapted to serve the needs of individuals regardless of how they choose to travel.  Complete streets is a transportation network approach that considers the needs of all users, including:

• Bicyclists
• Commercial and emergency vehicles
• Motorists
• Pedestrians
• Transit users

Vision & Purpose

The City of New Ulm's Complete Streets Policy will assist in the establishment of transportation corridors that are safe, functional, encourage active transportation, and aesthetically attractive for all users. This Policy will help guide decision-makers in planning, designing, and constructing transportation networks to reasonably accommodate all anticipated users.

Policy

The City of New Ulm will consider the safety and accessibility of users of all abilities and transportation modes through the design, operation, and maintenance of the transportation network. This approach will help create a connected network of facilities that accommodates each method of transportation that is consistent with and supportive of the local community. The Policy recognizes that streets are different and the needs of various users will be considered in a balanced and flexible manner.

Improvements

Transportation network improvements may include facilities and amenities that contribute to Complete Streets. This includes but is not limited to street and sidewalk lighting, sidewalk and pedestrian ramp construction, and bicycle infrastructure improvements.

Early consideration of all transportation modes will be important for this policy to succeed. Those that plan and design roadway improvement projects will give consideration to all users from the beginning of the planning and design process to its conclusion. This will require interested individuals and groups to provide input through the New Ulm Safety Commission at least 6 months in advance of the yearly Capital Improvement Program development process.

Project Development Process

The project development process will include consideration of the land use and transportation context of the project along with relevant information from the Comprehensive Plan for the City of New Ulm. Gaps and deficiencies in the transportation network for various user groups will be considered and an assessment made of the tradeoffs necessary to balance those needs. Review and input from the City's Safety Commission and other interested individuals or groups will be taken into consideration during the project development process. A Complete Streets segment may be achieved through a single improvement project or through a series of improvement projects over a period of time. Factors that may be given high priority include whether:

• The corridor is in an area where a high amount of active transportation and pedestrian traffic can be anticipated
• The corridor provides primary access across a natural or manmade barrier such as a river or highway
• The corridor provides primary access to a significant destination such as:
  • Employment Centers
  • Grocery Stores
  • Health Care Facilities
  • Parks
  • Recreation Centers
  • Schools
  • Shopping Centers
• Nearby routes that provide a similar level of convenience and connectivity already exist
• A road corridor provides important continuity or connectivity links for the existing recreational trail network