Complete Streets is a relatively new term for an idea from decades past. Long before extensive regulations and requirements that favor rapid automobile movement began dictating street design, streets were built and developed to serve the destinations surrounding them. Some of the greatest streets in America still maintain this centuries-old character.

During the past two decades Dallas has seen new types of development and vibrant revitalized neighborhoods emerge in many parts of the city. With more and more people finding their home in urban areas and deciding to use alternatives modes of travel such as walking, biking or transit, the desire to build streets differently is growing. DART’s recently expanded light rail system and the Dallas’ commitment to a new bikeway network through the 2011 Bike Plan are responding to this growing demand for alternative transportation choices.

Although not all streets are appropriate for multi-modal travel, many streets in Dallas could benefit from the implementation of a complete streets approach to building roadways. Doing so can raise property values, improve our personal health, reduce the impact on the environment and lower our transportation costs.

Ultimately Complete Streets will result in economic development by creating a variety of attractive places where people like to live, work, shop and play. In this global economy, livable urban environments will continue to attract jobs and residents and keep Dallas competitive.

Go to the National Complete Streets Coalition for more information about Complete Streets across the Country.