An initiative to bring so-called “complete streets” to the city of Haverhill culminates into a public discussion Wednesday evening in Haverhill City Hall.
Merrimack Valley Planning Commission Senior Transportation Planner Betsy Goodrich is scheduled to lead the forum, held in conjunction with Team Haverhill’s “Discover Haverhill” group, from 6 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Room 301, Haverhill City Hall.
“Complete Streets” are defined as “a street that is inclusive of all users’ needs – no matter their ability, age, or mode of transportation. Complete Streets create more livable communities and increase mobility by promoting safety and easier access for pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers, and transit users,” according to the Broward (Florida) Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).
“A complete street is a street where the entire right of way is planned, designed, and operated for all modes of transportation and all users regardless of age or ability. Pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists of all ages and abilities must be able to safely move along and across a complete street. Complete streets make it easy to cross the street, walk to shops, catch the bus, and bike to work.”
“Many interests are aligning for safer, healthier streets. The AARP is a strong supporter of complete streets. In addition, a broad collection of interests such as smart growth, schools, planners, realtors, insurance companies, health professionals, and engineers (such as the Institute of Transportation Engineers [ITE] and the American Society of Civil Engineers [ASCE]) support complete streets initiatives. More than 100 cities across the United States and at least three MPOs have adopted complete streets policies,” the Broward MPO said.