Pitch Summary:

Today’s streets are designed to prioritize one mode of transportation – the motor vehicle. As a result, our streets, which were once avenues of commerce and places of connection, have become about moving cars rather than connecting people to places. Vermont has the opportunity to realize a multitude of benefits by enhancing our active transportation network and investing intentionally in the implementation of complete streets and compact development. Complete Streets policies not only make it possible for residents to take shorter trips and utilize public transit, but to drive less, saving money and reducing harmful emissions pollution. In addition to investing in Complete Streets, Vermont has the opportunity to lead the way in collecting and analyzing their performance. While we know initial data suggests Complete Streets projects were related to
broader economic gains like increased employment and higher property values, creating and using new performance measures for transportation projects and the transportation system is essential. This would will help agencies ensure they are on the right track — and celebrate when our investments successfully help Vermonters age in place, live affordable and healthy lives, and attract and retain young Vermonters.To fully benefit all Vermonters, we believe the State needs to establish benchmarks and goals for active transportation to ensure accountability and greater adoption of Complete Streets law.

Submitted by:Transportation for Vermonters Coalition; Kelly Stoddard Poor (AARP VT) Coalition Member

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