In reading over Clark’s master plan, Clark has not adopted a complete streets policy for the town.   A complete street plan is a community’s formal strategy to focus decision making and funding on planning, designing, and constructing community streets that accommodate all intended users.   Also, according to the NJ Bicycle and Pedestrian Resource Center (https://njbikeped.org/about-complete-streets-in-nj/), The New Jersey Department of Transportation gives special consideration to municipalities with adopted Complete Streets policies when reviewing applications submitted for federal and most state grant funding opportunities.  So, by the town not having a policy we are throwing away free money that we could potentially have.  

Adopting a complete streets ordinance in Clark, NJ can bring numerous benefits to the community:

1. Safety: Complete streets prioritize the safety of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Designing streets with features like sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes, and traffic calming measures can reduce accidents and injuries, making the community safer for everyone.
2. Accessibility: By accommodating all modes of transportation, complete streets make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to get around. This benefits not only residents but also visitors and tourists, improving access to local businesses, schools, parks, and other amenities.
3. Health and Wellness: Encouraging walking and cycling through complete streets infrastructure promotes physical activity and healthier lifestyles. This can lead to lower rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic health conditions, ultimately reducing healthcare costs and improving overall well-being.
4. Economic Development: Complete streets can enhance the attractiveness and vibrancy of commercial areas, leading to increased foot traffic and business revenues. Additionally, investments in active transportation infrastructure can boost property values and attract new residents and businesses to the community.
5. Environmental Sustainability: By reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles and promoting alternative modes of transportation, complete streets help mitigate traffic congestion and air pollution. This contributes to cleaner air, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and a healthier environment for current and future generations.
6. Quality of Life: Well-designed streets enhance the overall quality of life in a community by creating inviting public spaces where people can gather, socialize, and engage in recreational activities. Complete streets also foster a sense of community pride and identity, strengthening social connections and civic engagement.
7. Legal Compliance: Many states and municipalities have enacted legislation or adopted policies supporting complete streets initiatives. By implementing a complete streets ordinance, Clark, NJ can align with broader regional and national trends in transportation planning and demonstrate a commitment to best practices in urban design and development.

Adopting a complete streets ordinance in Clark, NJ can lead to safer, more accessible, and more livable streets that benefit residents, businesses, and the environment alike.