[B’ Spokes: This paints a different and more accurate picture of Maryland’s polices then the LAB’s rating. A bit more detail in the document on modal policies and of special interest for us is funding polices.]
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Complete Streets Policy Analysis Ratings Descriptions (Sponsored by FHWA)
Since Complete Streets policies are adopted in so many different forms, it is important to note that different policy types will be strong in different areas. A resolution, for example, is more likely to get a strong ranking for purpose and vision than a state law, which would be expected to do better in the Policy Reach category. Therefore, policies should be compared to their own policy type. Note that this evaluation is based entirely on the language contained in the policy document.
Maryland:
Users with Disabilities No Mention
Older Adults No Mention
Policy Reach, How far does the policy reach in affecting road planning and construction decisions? Is it likely to be implemented?
Average – Average policies usually affect only roads controlled by the policy-making agency, though occasionally cover private roadways as well. They are often explicitly linked to other procedures and documents and feature next steps and goals more frequently. They tend to use stronger prescriptive language.
Purpose & Vision, Does the policy express a clear purpose and vision for the transportation system?
Average – Average policies always acknowledge the need for Complete Streets networks and for balancing a variety of user needs, occasionally making extensive notes on one or the other. They occasionally list specific outcomes.
Coverage, What roads and what types of projects does the policy cover, and are exceptions clear and specific?
Extensive, Extensive policies usually cover a variety of road projects beyond new construction and reconstruction, including repaving and retrofit projects. They frequently specify allowable exceptions, of which there are generally three or fewer.
https://drusilla.hsrc.unc.edu/cms/downloads/PBSPolicyReview.pdfoldId.20100917072209547
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