MDOT 750 Complete Streets

Original Date: November 15, 2016
Revised: N/A
Effective June 1, 2024
Note:There may be formatting differences between the electronic document and the signed document. 
MDOT signed policy supersedes all information provided on this page. 
Printed copies of this page only valid for this date: November 25, 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to: 1. Satisfy the statutory requirement to adopt a Statewide Complete Streets Policy for highway, transit, and airport facilities, as mandated under Transportation Article § 2-112, §5-408.1, §7-310, and §8-204.1;

2. Facilitate the planning, design, and construction of transportation options that are safer and more accessible to all users of all ages and abilities who bike, walk, take transit, drive or use electric personal assistive mobility devices (EPAMDs);

3. Accomplish four primary goals:

a) Establish a framework for future Complete Streets guidance and assigns modal responsibilities that support equitable decision-making in Complete Streets implementation;

b) Require the implementation of planning and design principles from Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Maryland Transit Administration’s (MTA) Bus Stop Design Guide, and State Highway Administration’s (SHA) Context Driven: Access and Mobility for All Users Guide, or Context Guide, to address safety, access, and mobility for all users on all projects in MDOT right-of-way in the following cases;

i. When implementing a capital improvement project, such as construction or reconstruction of a roadway, intersection, or bridge.

ii. When permitting new or reconstructed streets to access MDOT right-of-way; or

iii. When there is an opportunity to improve safety for all users by applying proactive engineering safety countermeasures to resurfacing projects.

c) Prioritize communication to staff, partner agencies, and the public to build awareness around safer interactions for transit, motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and those using EPAMDs and expand the implementation of the Context Guide in underserved communities; and

d) Delegate authority to approve design waivers for bicycle and pedestrian accommodations to the Secretary of MDOT.

4. Define certain terms within the context of this Policy.