Complete Streets: Designing for All Users

I’ve walked a lot of streets. Growing up in Chicago, sketching as an architecture student, and now designing as an urban planner. One thing is clear: Streets need to work for everyone, not just cars.

That’s where “Complete Streets” come in. It’s not just about a bike lane here, or wider sidewalk there. It’s rethinking street design to prioritize safety and access for everyone, no matter how they get around, their age, or ability.

The Shift: From Cars to People

For years, city planning focused on one thing: getting cars through as fast as possible. This meant wide roads, tiny sidewalks (if any), and bike lanes that were an afterthought. Pedestrians, cyclists, and bus riders? Often forgotten.

I remember projects where traffic flow was everything. Walking, biking, the bus – secondary, if considered at all! The Complete Streets movement corrects this. Streets aren’t just for cars; they’re public spaces shaping our communities.

What Makes a Street “Complete?” Key Design Elements

So, what is a Complete Street? It’s not a cookie-cutter thing. It’s customized to each street and neighborhood. But some common elements exist:

Pedestrian Paradise: Wide sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, crossings with enough time, and ways to slow down cars. A good crosswalk can mean feeling safe, or feeling like you’re risking your life.
Bike-Friendly Zones: Dedicated bike lanes, protected lanes (separated from cars!), shared lane markings (“sharrows”), and bike parking. Make cycling safe and comfortable for all.
Public Transit Power: Easy, accessible public transit is vital. Bus shelters, rapid transit lanes, light rail, accessible platforms. Good transit connects communities.
Calming the Chaos: Speed bumps, raised crosswalks, narrower lanes, roundabouts – all slow cars and make things safer. Small changes, big impact.
Access for All: Designed for everyone, including people with disabilities, seniors, and kids. Tactile paving, audible signals, accessible benches.

Complete Streets in the Real World: Success Stories

Complete Streets aren’t just a dream. Cities are doing it, and it’s working. Look at San Francisco’s Market Street. Wider sidewalks, protected bike lanes, better transit access transformed a dangerous road into a vibrant, people-friendly space.

Another example? Jan Gehl’s work in Copenhagen. By prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists, Copenhagen is now super livable and sustainable. Complete Streets aren’t just about safety; they boost the economy and build community.

Overcoming Roadblocks: Addressing Concerns

Despite the benefits, some worry about Complete Streets. A common concern? Traffic jams! But studies show they can actually improve traffic by encouraging walking, biking, and bus use.

Another worry? Cost. Some projects are expensive, but many can be done gradually. Plus, the long-term benefits – lower healthcare costs, higher property values, a stronger economy – often outweigh the initial expense.

Take Action: Advocate for Change

Creating Complete Streets isn’t just for planners. It needs community members, politicians, everyone. So, what can you do?

Get Smart: Learn about Complete Streets. Understand why they matter.
Speak Up: Attend local meetings. Support Complete Streets publicly.
Contact Leaders: Tell your elected officials you want Complete Streets. Encourage them to prioritize these projects.
Team Up: Work with local groups, organizations, and businesses to promote Complete Streets.

Complete Streets create safer, fairer, and more livable communities. Together, we can transform streets into places for everyone.

Complete Streets: Your Questions Answered

What’s the big deal about Complete Streets? They make things safer, easier, and more convenient for everyone. They boost the economy and make communities better.
How do businesses benefit? More foot traffic, easier access, a more appealing environment for shoppers and diners.
Does my city have a Complete Streets plan? Check your city’s website or call the planning department.
What if my street is too narrow? There are solutions! Shared lanes, traffic calming, flexible design.

Let’s build cities where streets connect us, not divide us. Let’s build Complete Streets.