Feel free to copy/paste some or all of the following comments:

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.