Lawmaker: ‘We must champion an inclusive transportation infrastructure‘
OLYMPIA – The road is big enough. State Rep. Jim Moeller’s “Complete Streets” legislation aimed at “keeping everyone in the loop when it comes to our transportation infrastructure” is on its own road to becoming the law of the state. Yes, Moeller’s bill declares, we should be able to count on roads being big enough, and safe enough, for everyone.
Moeller’s House Bill 1071 has cleared both legislative chambers and is on the governor’s desk, needing only that one final signature to take its place among the other enactments.
The legislation directs the Washington State Department of Transportation to establish a Complete Streets Grant Program. The department must talk with local jurisdictions prior to any design work when constructing or making major repairs to city streets that are part of a state highway.
“When you’re talking about this concept of ‘complete streets,’” Moeller explained, “you’re talking about designing and operating streets in a way that guarantees safe and reliable access for everyone – and that includes pedestrians, bicyclists, public-transportation users, and motorists.
“Although it’s obviously true that many cities are already built out, the grant program in this legislation will, first of all, allow opportunities for making those city streets much more efficient, and, second, improve the infrastructure for all users,” he continued.
Moeller said that “it’s really very simple: We must champion an inclusive transportation infrastructure.”
“Transportation advocates are very pleased the Legislature is taking a more serious look at how we strike a balance for all modes of transportation in Washington,” said Carrie Dolwick, State Policy Director for the Transportation Choices Coalition. “This bill is a first step to allow state resources to be invested in streets that are for everyone, whether young or old, motorist or bicyclist, walker or wheelchair user, bus rider or shopkeeper.”
Moeller is a member of the House Transportation Committee where the measure has been thoroughly discussed.