By Joe Bachman
Editor

STEVENS POINT — Planning commission officials adopted a “complete streets” resolution for the city.

The term was coined by American Bikes which ensures that the right of way of streets are designed for safe access of all users — bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. According to text from the agenda item:

“The Community Development department intends to incorporate complete street standards within the Land Development Code, such as within the subdivision chapter. In addition to incorporating complete street design standards, the code will also include aesthetic components.“

Bicycle and Pedestrian Street Safety Commission member Trevor Roark spoke in favor of the resolution:

“It’s evident to staff, public officials, and residents alike that our streets are not safe for all users, and they are primarily car-centric,” said Roark. “You don’t have to look far to experience this issue. Walk along the sidewalk of the north side of Centerpoint Drive — how safe to you feel? Ride your bicycle along Division Street between Maria and Northpoint — how safe was that ride?”

In the resolution, it states that street and transportation facilties must be designed for the safety and convenience of all users of city streets. This includes: pedestrians, bicyclists, those with differing abilities, transit users, automobile drivers, commercial vehicles, freight haulers, and emergency vehicles.

The resolution will see a final vote at this month’s common council.