For Immediate Release
Date: January 22, 2014

Savannah City Council approved an ordinance Thursday that makes “complete streets” the standard when designing and constructing new roadways in the City of Savannah.

Complete streets are streets that contribute to a safe, convenient or comfortable travel experience for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motor vehicle drivers and public transportation riders. Moving forward, new road construction will be designed, to the extent practicable, with amenities such as sidewalks and bicycle lanes that facilitate multiple modes of transportation.

“I am very supportive of these efforts,” said Alderwoman Mary Ellen Sprague. “The people in my district are big walkers and bikers. This will make a huge difference for the future of our community.”

The nonprofit Healthy Savannah Inc. worked with City leaders to develop the Complete Streets Ordinance, which was one of the organization’s priorities as part of a three-year Healthcare Georgia Foundation grant to combat childhood obesity.

“We applaud the City for taking this critical step toward making our streets safe, appealing and convenient for all citizens and visitors, no matter what form of transportation they use,” said John Bennett, executive director of the Savannah Bicycle Campaign and a member of the Health Savannah coalition. “Savannah is now positioned to enjoy the economic, public safety, public health and other benefits that Complete Streets provide.”