Complete Streets policy

• Project typeStreet safety and efficiency standards
• Project scheduleComplete

About this project

We want to ensure safe and efficient travel for all people, whether they’re walking, driving, bicycling, or using public transit. Our Complete Streets policy supports this goal by setting standards for transportation improvements.

These standards include recommended design features for street construction and maintenance. A few examples are:

• Sidewalks
• Curbs with accessible ramps
• Transit lanes and stops
• Roundabouts
• Bike lanes and parking
• Signage and signals

Exceptions to this policy

Certain projects may not need to follow this policy. Exceptions must be submitted to the Public Works director and approved by the city manager.

Disallowed street uses

If a project would require allowing street uses that break the law, or the terms of a grant or other agency, it doesn’t need to include those features of the policy.

Regular maintenance

Maintenance activities don’t need to include features of this policy for anything that would go beyond the scope of that maintenance.

Impractical uses

Street construction and maintenance projects can qualify for exceptions for any of these reasons:

• If there isn’t enough space
• Where there isn’t an expected demand or plans for alternative transportation methods
• If the project doesn’t align with the Transportation Master Plan
• If the project isn’t compatible with the character of the neighborhood
• If the project would negatively affect environmental resources or historic sites

Key documents

• Complete Streets policy (Ordinance 20-1008)(PDF, 435KB)

Project benefits

• A focus on supporting multiple ways to travel
• Standards for current and new transportation projects
• Flexibility and exceptions for certain areas