Theresa Bartoldus

I fully support the Complete Streets initiative. The bike trail system in Anchorage is one of our city’s finest assets and I feel that we should continue to expand and strengthen it for the long-term health and safety of our citizens.

Thank you for this opportunity to bring a Complete Streets Policy to Anchorage. I am someone who walks their dog everyday in a neighborhood without sidewalks, who bikes to work without adequate or safe infrastructure, who takes the bus and appreciates safe pullouts, and who has a one-car household and drives when needed. These and more lead me to work to make our community safer for all roadway users.


I believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy represents a significant milestone for Anchorage. As explained by Smart Growth America, the organization behind Complete Streets, I feel it’s important to “direct our transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.” The livability of Anchorage has suffered from decades of automobile-centric design. By embracing Complete Streets, we have an opportunity to reimagine a city that is safe, convenient, and inviting for everyone – not just for people in cars.


In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy.


Please find my comments on the draft policy, broken down by section, below.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:


“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

“AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”

In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.

As a bike commuter, I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy. In addition to providing safer options for cyclists and pedestrials, a Complete Streets policy will help reduce our high use of gas and diesel consumption, which account for over 50% of Anchorage’s end use consumption.


I agree with Bike Anchorage’s perspective on Complete Streets, as follows.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:


“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

“AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”

In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.

I support the adoption of a Complete Streets Policy for Anchorage. It is a critical for safe, equitable, and inclusive transportation options for the residents and visitors of our city, and a crucial step towards our collective goal of Vision Zero. Designing and building for active transportation options allows all roadway users the opportunity to be safe. I support the comments of Bike Anchorage, as listed below:


I believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy represents a significant milestone for Anchorage. As explained by Smart Growth America, the organization behind Complete Streets, I feel it’s important to “direct our transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.” The livability of Anchorage has suffered from decades of automobile-centric design. By embracing Complete Streets, we have an opportunity to reimagine a city that is safe, convenient, and inviting for everyone – not just for people in cars.


In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy.


Please find my comments on the draft policy, broken down by section, below.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:


“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

“AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”

In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.

Enhancing and expanding bicycle policies, infrastructure and education is critical in continuing to make Anchorage a community one that is powered by pedals and working towards sustainable development. I commute by bicycle year-round, and would love to see more people on the trails and on the roads, and strongly believe that building new bike lanes, increasing pedestrian, driver and cyclist education and awareness needs to happen.


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.

As a year round bike commuter I believe adopting a Complete Streets policy is essential for a safer, more robust system of transportation for those who chose alternative forms of transportation as well as those who do not or cannot drive.


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. I would rather see specific performance measures established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


Establishing a Complete Streets policy will enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation, something that is desperately needed in our city.

I am a bike commuter and cycle for enjoyment, so I know and cycle on the paths and roads of anchorage daily. I strongly support the Complete Streets Policy. It aims for the future we need in Anchorage. One area I do not see addressed in this proposal is education of the driving public. It is a routine occurrence in Anchorage to have drivers yell and swear at cyclists for cycling on the road. Actions to educate the drivers regarding cyclist rights and how to drive safely near cyclists could benefit us all.

I am in full support of the Complete Streets Policy and see it as an important step in the right direction for making Anchorage a more livable city for all residents. Anchorage has developed as an automobile-centric city, yet there is still time and space to modernize the infrastructure to allow more access for pedestrian and bicycle traffic, as well as to increase focus on public transportation. I hope to see AMATS strongly utilize and publicize the Complete Streets Policy so that all residents are aware of the positive changes in our communities.

I agree with Bike Anchorage’s perspective on the Complete Streets Policy, as follows . I especially agree that opportunity for public comment be considered within the ‘exceptions’ clause.


I believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy represents a significant milestone for Anchorage. As explained by Smart Growth America, the organization behind Complete Streets, I feel it’s important to “direct our transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.” The livability of Anchorage has suffered from decades of automobile-centric design. By embracing Complete Streets, we have an opportunity to reimagine a city that is safe, convenient, and inviting for everyone – not just for people in cars.


In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy.


Please find my comments on the draft policy, broken down by section, below.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:


“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

“AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”

In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.

believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy represents a significant milestone for Anchorage. As explained by Smart Growth America, the organization behind Complete Streets, I feel it’s important to “direct our transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.” The livability of Anchorage has suffered from decades of automobile-centric design. By embracing Complete Streets, we have an opportunity to reimagine a city that is safe, convenient, and inviting for everyone – not just for people in cars.


In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy.


Please find my comments on the draft policy, broken down by section, below.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:

•“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

• “AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”


In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.

Excellent policy. Suggest replacement of the word “encourages” in Section 3 with the word “requires”.

I believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy is the way forward. So to the transportation planners and engineers who design and plan our infrastructure please think of all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation when designing. I commute several times a week by bike safe biking lanes are much appreciated. Now if we can get the plow drivers to stop plowing snow onto to sidewalks and bike paths or stop leaving giant berms around corners that would be great.

I believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy represents a significant milestone for Anchorage. As explained by Smart Growth America, the organization behind Complete Streets, I feel it’s important to “direct our transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.” The livability of Anchorage has suffered from decades of automobile-centric design. By embracing Complete Streets, we have an opportunity to reimagine a city that is safe, convenient, and inviting for everyone – not just for people in cars.


In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy.


Please find my comments on the draft policy, broken down by section, below.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:


“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

“AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”

In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community.

I support the adoption of a Complete Streets Policy for Anchorage. Depending on the day I am a cyclist, a pedestrian and a driver – sometimes all three – and I appreciate the many benefits of designing streets that are accessible and convenient for all users. I often choose whether or not to bike to a specific destination depending on the accessibility and safety of the route, and while Anchorage has an incredible trail system, our bike commuting – especially in mid town and downtown – can be really challenging and scary.


If Anchorage wants to attract and keep vibrant, bright, active minds we need to build a community that is inviting and thoughtfully designed. Plus, by encouraging other forms of of transportation besides vehicles, Anchorage simultaneously is able to address public health topics like obesity and air quality, while making it easier for those without cars to move around the community, including seniors, lower income residents and tourists.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.

Bridget Psarianos

I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. The recent Abbott Loop Rd. improvement project is a perfect example of why this policy is needed. Extra driving lanes were added to Abbott between Lake Otis and Elmore. This further restricted access to Ruth Arcand park from the neighborhoods North of Abbott. Proper planning could have improved traffic flow and park access. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. Hopefully this will improve pedestrian and bicycle travel throughout our city.

I would love to commute to work. But I don’t feel safe on the Chester creek trail. Too many drunk homeless

I am a seasonal employee living in Anchorage. I do not bring a car to Alaska but I still need to get around town to spend money shopping, eating, and being entertained. I am flabbergasted that bicycles are expected to ride on the sidewalk in the downtown area. This is dangerous for everyone. I am much happier in protected bicycle lanes with barriers separating me from traffic. The bicycle rental stores are small businesses which would benefit from protected bike lanes as well. Can you support a green, healthy, and economical lifestyle?

Thank you for the concerted efforts to make our streets serve all users!


Does the following statement implicitly

acknowledge that a disproportionate cost is already incurred on behalf of motorists relative to other forms of transport? If not, I hope that an equitable metric can be applied so that tax revenues serve us all. Thank you!


“Exceptions may be considered for approval when:

2. Cost of accommodation is excessively disproportionate to the need or probable use”

We need to consider the other users that have just as much right to be there as the motorists. The recent re-alignment of Abbott removed the big ditch between the path and the road, moved the road closer to the path, and the result is that plow-debris now end up on the path, which makes it impossible to travel on when the road is plowed. Even walking through those debris is incredibly difficult and creates an unsafe situation. We have a wonderful start with the Campbell Creek, Coastal and Westchester trails, but those only go in very specific directions, we need more connections and considerations for riders and pedestrians with the design of roads and structures.

Transportation should not be limited to cars. All streets should be navigable by foot and bike as well. I support Bike Anchorage’s comments on the Complete Streets plan.

Clear travel paths for bikers/pedestrians make conflict with motorists a rare occurrence. A way to bike the coastal trail around to the Arm would be huge. Fairbanks to Seward on a designated bike/multi-use trail, people would travel from all over for that…

Please make through ways accessible to all!!! It is needed!

I believe this policy should speak more directly to the inherent challenges in an arctic environment where winter conditions impact design. For example, in the winter months, streets narrow, bike lanes disappear, and safety diminishes. This factor of reduced safety needs to be highlighted and addressed in this policy to ensure that any design must consider how to preserve right of ways for all users during all seasons of the year.

I believe that adopting a Complete Streets Policy represents a significant milestone for Anchorage. As explained by Smart Growth America, the organization behind Complete Streets, I feel it’s important to “direct our transportation planners and engineers to routinely design and operate the entire right of way to enable safe access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.” The livability of Anchorage has suffered from decades of automobile-centric design. By embracing Complete Streets, we have an opportunity to reimagine a city that is safe, convenient, and inviting for everyone – not just for people in cars.


In addition, I encourage AMATS to prioritize vulnerable users and neighborhoods with histories of underinvestment in the Complete Streets Policy.


Please find my comments on the draft policy, broken down by section, below.


Section 5: Scope of Complete Streets Policy


According to Smart Growth America, the most effective Complete Streets Policies include a clear vision statement that states future transportation projects “shall” or “must” consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. To this end, I appreciate the following definitive statements defining the scope of the policy:


“Transportation projects receiving money that passes through the local Anchorage MPO agency (AMATS) will be expected to follow a Complete Streets approach.”

“AMATS shall approach each transportation project as an opportunity to create safer, more accessible facilities for all users.”

In addition, I would encourage AMATS to mention projects that account for the needs of all users will be prioritized or awarded extra weight for funding and/or inclusion in long-range transportation improvement plans (TIPs). Looking at each project through the lens of Complete Streets is essential if we want to create a safe and useful bike and pedestrian network.


Section 6: Exceptions


I appreciate that all exceptions to the policy must be approved by the Policy Committee. This adds an important level of transparency. However, I believe including a formal opportunity for public comment would enhance this transparency, should a project be considered for an exemption.


Section 7: Design Standards


Incorporating the latest design standards are essential to ensure transportation projects best serve all users. I appreciate that AMATS promotes the use of best practice design standards and provides a listing of design resources in the policy. However, I would to like to see this policy go a step further and require the adoption of best practice design standards along with revision of internal design policies.


Section 9: Performance Measures


The current listing of performance measures represents a great start for gauging the success of this policy. I appreciate that AMATS will promote the use of these performance measures. However, similar to my comment on design standards, I would rather see specific performance established and committed to, rather than promoted. This will ensure accountability in tracking the success of this policy.


In addition, I would like to see a defined time period mentioned for establishing baseline data and assessment of performance. For example: “Within six month of policy adoption, AMATS shall obtain and record baseline data for each of these performance measures.”


I would also recommend adding, “total miles of new bike lanes” to the current list of performance measures.


Section 10. Implementation and Reporting


I am excited about the implementation of this Complete Streets Policy and am ready to see more Complete Streets in Anchorage. I appreciate that AMATS will be incorporating Complete Streets principles into its plans and programs. In particular, I look forward to participating in the training opportunities offered by AMATS on Complete Streets.


Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on this important milestone. I fully support Complete Streets in my community. Please don’t hesitate to follow up with me on these comments.