Projects on roadways maintained by the state DOT will have to comply with Complete Streets requirements as part of a broader effort to reduce traffic deaths in the state.
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) issued a new, department-wide Complete Streets policy, signaling a renewed commitment to improving road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
According to an announcement from MDOT, “the Complete Streets policy will ensure MDOT’s multi-billion-dollar capital program funds safe, complete streets for all Marylanders.”
Complete Streets requirements will apply to capital improvement projects, new or reconstructed streets connecting to MDOT rights-of-way, and “When there is an opportunity to improve safety for all users by applying proactive engineering safety countermeasures to resurfacing projects.”
The policy requires each MDOT mode or transportation type to develop strategies for implementation within the next six months “with the goal of increasing equitable access to the transportation network — from better transit connections to safer crossings.” It also focuses on driver education and traffic enforcement.
The statement notes, “The policy applies to new projects and is not retroactive for ones that have achieved 30% or more design and approval pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or that will achieve those milestones by December 1.”
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