Arlington County Allows New Street Variations to Prioritize Multi-Modalism

The Virginia county of Arlington has written into law the ability to create shared streets as well as streets that prioritize pedestrians.

1 minute read

October 20, 2016, 5:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Arlington

Rob Crandall / Shutterstock

"The Arlington County Board adopted today proposed amendments to the Master Transportation Plan Street Element, incorporating two innovative changes: a new pedestrian priority street type — a car-free street that provides pedestrians access to adjacent buildings — and “shared streets” — for pedestrians, bicyclists and low speed vehicular traffic," according to a news release from the county of Arlington.

The new street variations are already included in sector plans for the Rosslyn and Courthouse areas, but the new amendments are also intended to inform future plans in other locations arounf the county. The news release explains the Rosslyn and Courthouse plans in more detail, however.

"Arlington is a varied community that puts an emphasis on various modes of travel – be it walking, biking, taking transit or driving," said Arlington County Board Chair Libby Garvey, as quoted in the release. "These street variations are very exciting and an important step in improving access and safety for the many residents, visitors and commuters that walk and bike around Arlington each and every day."

Wednesday, October 19, 2016 in Arlington County

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