“Complete Streets” at Cranston meeting TONIGHT promotes walking, biking, public transportation…

This Thursday, at the Cranston City Council Public Works committee a presentation will be made by Grow Smart RI, introducing their local version of the national “Complete Streets” plan for America. The presentation will be part of the presentation of a resolution of Complete Streets concepts. The intent is that “Complete Streets” be adopted into the Comprehensive Plan for Cranston. The plan is a national initiative with local plans being promoted by the Coalition for Transportation Choices (CTC).

The agenda for the meeting which begins at 6pm today – in person or virtually – is here:

https://rinewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2023-12-07-Agenda-2.pdf

In 2023, over $90,000 was grants to various city/nonprofit partnerships with Cranston receiving $5,000 with the Cranston HEZ (Health Equity Zone) group. “These temporary demonstration projects are a great way for communities to experiment with ideas for improving pedestrian, bike, and accessible infrastructure improvements before pursuing more expensive and permanent improvements,” said John Flaherty of Grow Smart RI.

Health Equity Zones, or HEZs, are a proven model for delivering public health services that are more equitable in Rhode Island. Through the Health Equity Zone initiative, the State is investing funding and resources to train community leaders to visualize and deliver programs and services that best serve the unique needs of their community. This work helps all Rhode Islanders overcome zip code-based barriers to living their healthiest life. RISTP awardees include the HEZs in Cranston and Bristol/Warren.

Sponsored by AARP, and other organizations, here is a brief synopsis of “Complete Streets”:

Ingredients that may be found on a Complete Street include sidewalks, bike lanes, special bus lanes, comfortable and accessible transit stops, frequent crossing opportunities, pedestrian signals, good lighting, curb extensions, and more.

John Donegan, councilman in Cranston posted on Facebook about the event, “this resolution is the product of a collaborative effort between myself and the Planning Department, after I brought it up at a meeting discussing the comprehensive plan, then meeting in person to discuss with the Planning Department, and writing the resolution together.”

A resolution will be presented, drafted by Councilman Donegan and Councilman Ferri:

A highlighted portion:

WHEREAS, “Complete Streets” concepts, design-features and practices include, but are not limited
to sidewalks, shared use paths, bicycle lanes, bicycle routes, paved shoulders, street trees, landscaping, lighting, accessible curb ramps, crosswalks, refuge islands, pedestrian signals, benches,
bicycle parking facilities, bus pull-outs, bus stop shelters, sidewalk snow removal, and traffic calming
measures such as bump-outs, center islands, and pavements markings; and…”

Also being discussed at the Public Works Committee is buying and installing bike lane “Delineator flex poles” on Narragansett Blvd, where there is a bike lane. The poles may or may not be affixed to the pavement – with an approximate $11,000 cost.

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An example of a “before” and an “after” for a city:

A video describing the intent of streetscaping, etc:

The announcement of the presentation is being made by CRANSTON FORWARD:

Smart Growth For Cranston “Complete Streets” is an approach to planning and design that fosters multiple, integrated transportation options; improves our ability to get around the city safely, efficiently and affordably; promotes economic development, public health, and environmental stewardship; and helps to make Cranston a better place to live and work.  Sounds great! At this Thursday’s Cranston City Council Public Works Committee meeting, there will be a presentation from Grow Smart RI and a discussion about incorporating Complete Streets concepts and practices into Cranston’s Comprehensive Plan and ordinances (sponsored by council members Robert Ferri and John Donegan).  Should be interesting! WHEN: December 7, 6 pm WHERE: City Council Chambers, 3d Floor, City Hall -or- Join Virtually (Click here) -or- Join by phone One tap mobile : +16465588656,,94881297063# Regular dial in:  +1 646 558 8656 (Passcode: 028334)

Review the whole plan, here: https://smartgrowthamerica.org/what-are-complete-streets/