Congressman Espaillat Joins Sen. Markey and Reps. Cohen and Gallego to Introduce Legislation to Improve Safety, Accessibility for Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Public Transit Users

Statement

Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) joined Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07) today to introduce the Complete Streets Act, legislation that would promote safer and more accessible transportation routes across the United States.

A "complete street" is one designed to provide safe and accessible transportation options for multiple modes of travel, as well as for people of all ages and abilities. "Complete streets" can accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit users, not just cars and freight vehicles. A "complete street" is also safe for children, older individuals, and individuals with disabilities. The Complete Streets Act would require states set aside a portion of their federal highway funding to create a grant program that will fund "complete streets" projects to make transit routes safer and more accessible.

Through this program, eligible local and regional entities can apply for technical assistance and capital funding to build safe streets projects, such as sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, and bus stops.

"Improving the safety of our streets for all users is vitally important throughout our neighborhoods and communities," said Congressman Espaillat. "Efforts to improve road conditions throughout New York City have reduced overall traffic related deaths, yet pedestrian fatalities still increased by 4.7 percent from 2017 to 2018, and the recent spike in cyclist incidents show there's still much more work to be done. Nationally, pedestrian deaths increased by more than 40 percent over the past year in spite of widespread "Vision Zero" efforts, and cyclist deaths are up a whopping 25 percent of the past decade. As more and more people seek alternative forms of transportation, we must make sure our roads are designed for everyone to use them safely. I'm proud to join my colleagues to introduce the Complete Streets Act of 2019 because we each have a stake in keeping our streets safe for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers by taking measures to help save lives."

"We are facing a national safety crisis," said Congressman Cohen. "Over the past decade, this country has seen a dramatic increase in the number of pedestrians killed while walking. We need streets that can accommodate all means of transportation, from foot traffic and strollers to cars, light trucks and 18-wheelers. The grants made under the Complete Streets Act will transform communities and make them safer."

"Our roads and sidewalks are far more than a means of transportation, they are a means of economic growth and community development, and we must make them safe and accessible for everyone," said Senator Markey. "When we have "complete streets', we can have complete communities -- comprehensive centers for employment, education, health care, civic life, and commerce. Whether you are traveling by foot, spoke, or pass, everyone deserves "complete streets', and this legislation will help fund transportation options for the 21st century."

"We need to make our communities friendly to all types of transportation, including biking, walking, and public transit," said Congressman Gallego. "It will not only make our streets safer, but also spur the economy and improve public health. I am proud to introduce legislation that will help create and sustain vibrant, accessible, and sustainable communities in Phoenix and across the country."