US Department of Transportation (DOT) officials would consider a change in the way they classify thoroughfares — to the benefit of pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users — but they need political support, writes Robert Steuteville.
"Complete streets are among the most pressing needs for both urban and suburban revitalization — yet efforts to change roads to accommodate all users are stymied daily by road standards determined by the US functional classification system."
"Now a petition is circulating that could initiate the first change in this system in five or six decades. The designations arterial, collector, and local would not change —they are too deeply imbedded in the system. Yet these designations are further divided into rural or urban locations. The petition seeks to add a third location category — suburban."
"What does that matter? The change would make smart growth projects easier. It could help boost walking and bicycling, complete streets, and active living."
FULL STORY: Petition could powerfully promote ‘complete streets’

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
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