Independence Examiner: New Complete Streets Policy in Independence

Today the Independence Examiner highlighted the city's new Complete Streets policy.  Some excerpts from the article:

Independence is on its way to becoming more complete. 

Independence City Council passes Complete Streets policy

Following other Kansas City area cities like Lee’s Summit, the City Council on June 6 adopted a resolution that established a complete streets policy for Independence. The Mid-America Regional Council last fall included a complete streets principle in the update of its long-range plan, Transportation Outlook 2040. . . .

“It’s a very important policy change for us,” At-Large Council Member Jim Schultz said. “… I think this is a very, very important resolution. I think it’s an important change, and I think it’s a very timely change for the city of Independence.”

Historically, transportation project design and construction has only addressed the needs of passenger vehicles and trucks, according to a city staff report. In Independence, all proposed new public or private street improvement projects will include a review and a plan on how to address all modes of transportation. . . .

“I think it puts us at the lead on getting our people around and letting them have an exercise system that is citywide,” Mayor Don Reimal said of the new policy. “I think it’s an exceptionally good program.”

• Read the rest of the article in the Independence Examiner here.
• The story of the Independence Complete Streets Policy's passing in the City Council and and full text of the policy is here.