BALTIMORE, MD – Today, Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young and the Baltimore City Department of Transportation (BCDOT) Director Steve Sharkey announced the release of the city’s draft Complete Streets Manual. 

“The city’s Complete Streets policy influences the way our roadways are designed to increase the quality of life, safety, accessibility and mobility for residents in Baltimore City,” said Mayor Young. “We are proud to release the draft Complete Streets Manual today as we work to provide a roadway infrastructure that safely accommodates all users of the transportation system, especially during this public health emergency.”

In 2018, Baltimore City adopted its Complete Streets Ordinance to change the way the city plans and designs transportation infrastructure by elevating the priority of pedestrians, bicyclists, and users of public transit and shared mobility.  The law has received national attention and praise from the Complete Streets Coalition, along with local and national transportation/urban advocates.

Pursuant to the ordinance, the Department of Transportation developed the draft Complete Streets Manual which includes a project prioritization process based on equity, an established modal hierarchy, and detailed design guidelines that reflect both best practices nationwide and needs unique to Baltimore’s transportation network.  

“Today’s draft release advances our commitment to make our streets accessible to all users of the roadway, as it will ensure that the city’s infrastructure is planned, designed and constructed to accommodate all users of the transportation system,” said Transportation Director Sharkey.  “Complete Streets implementation will ultimately provide citizens with additional transportation choices, improved accessibility, and a more welcoming equitable street environment for better livability in communities throughout Baltimore City.”

The Department of Transportation is focused on connecting Baltimore communities with transportation networks while changing and transforming the quality of life in city neighborhoods.  As BCDOT projects progress, Baltimore City residents and visitors alike will see city streets become safer and more accessible for all user.  Residents can view and make comments on the draft version of the manual on our website or click on the following url: https://transportation.baltimorecity.gov/draft-complete-streets-manual.

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