'Complete Streets' Concept Gathers Steam

"The concept of 'complete streets' - with bike lanes, sidewalks and room for mass transit - has attracted a diverse national alliance of supporters, including advocates for senior citizens and the disabled."

"Fourteen states, six counties, 10 regional governments and 52 cities have complete streets policies, according to the National Complete Streets Coalition. In Illinois, a complete streets bill awaits the governor's signature. In California, a bill passed one house."

"Massachusetts and at least 11 cities - including Seattle, Honolulu, Chicago, Salt Lake City, Madison, Wis., and Jackson, Miss. - have approved complete streets policies since last year, the coalition says."

"Advocates say complete streets can help fight obesity by making it easier to walk and give seniors who don't drive more options."

"'As an aging society, we need to look at the ability to get where we want to go not just as the driver of a car,' says Elinor Ginzler, AARP's livable communities director. 'Walking safely, getting to the bus stop safely, has to become more possible.'"