Comment On Philadelphia's Complete Streets Design Handbook

In June 2009 Mayor Michael Nutter signed a Complete Streets Executive Order. The Executive Order directs departments to take into account all road users in road reconstruction projects. While the City almost always constructs roads as complete streets, without proper guidance projects can slip through the cracks (such as the missing sidewalks on Health Sciences Drive in University City). Developers can also alter the right of way with add-ons such as ADA accessible ramps or parking lay by lanes.

Example cross section of a street meeting
complete street standards

The City has now taken the next step in implementation by releasing a draft version of the Philadelphia Complete Streets Design Handbook for public comment. The handbook spells out the City's standards for complete streets and will be used by City and State agency staff, design professionals, private developers, community groups, and others involved in the planning, design and operation of streets in Philadelphia.

The public comment period will close on October 1st. If your community is interested in learning more about how Complete Streets can benefit your area, you can request a briefing from the Mayor’s Office of Transportation and Utilities. All comments and questions should be directed to Ariel Ben-Amos at ariel.ben-amos@phila.gov.