Binghamton – No matter if you decide to take the car, bike or just walk, a new law cosponsored by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) will help make roadways in New York State safer for all users. Earlier this week, Governor Cuomo announced that he signed the “Complete Streets” bill (A.8366) she cosponsored.

From now on, any project, state or local, that is overseen by the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) or that receives state and federal funding will be required to consider specific “complete streets” guidelines when planning transportation projects. Such features to be considered include sidewalks, paved shoulders for bicycle use, bicycle lanes, share the road signage, lane striping, crosswalks and pedestrian signals, ramps, bus pullouts and other traffic-calming measures.

“For too long, transportation planning has focused on the movement of cars and trucks,” said Lupardo, a member of the Transportation Committee in the Assembly. “The new law will encourage safer crossings and roadways for users of all ages and abilities, including children, elderly and disabled pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation users and motorists. This will lead to walkable and bikeable communities that are safe for all.”

The legislation was a priority for AARP for years and finally passed both the state Senate and Assembly before the end of the legislative session in June. In July, Lupardo was joined by representatives of AARP, the Broome County Strategic Alliance for Health and the Sierra Club to urge the governor to sign the “Complete Streets” bill.