DeSoto and Ferguson are the first two cities in Missouri to adopt Complete Street plans. The ordinances are in place to encourage walking and biking, and, ultimately, healthier lifestyles.
"'Complete Streets legislation has been popping up across the country at various levels of government and is often cited as the beginning of a more comprehensive commitment to building healthier communities,' said Phil Valko, Trailnet Active Living Program Manager. 'Complete Streets means more walkers and bikers, therefore healthier individuals; more walkers and bikers means more neighbor-to-neighbor interaction, resulting in stronger communities; and less driving means less pollution, resulting in a healthier environment.'"
"As mentioned in the minutes of the Ferguson City Council Meeting in which this ordinance was adopted, the city staff does currently take many of these principles in mind when planning public works projects; however, they were not captured in the municipal code. This ordinance will provide a specific reference to Complete Streets in the policy of the city and provide for a method to ensure that this is investigated in every instance. It is also important to note that such an ordinance is now being requested as an element of many construction-related grants that the city may be eligible for, including the Safe Routes to School Program, and will be very beneficial for the city in pursuing funding mechanisms."
Read the full story: Two Missouri Cities Adopt Complete Streets Policy
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