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Geneva officials unanimously advanced a new Complete Streets policy, a document guiding how the city plans, designs, and upgrades streets to better serve everyone — not just drivers.
While the approach has already more or less been used in practice, this policy would set a clear, citywide standard going forward.
Here’s what to know:
What “Complete Streets” means: Streets would be planned and designed to safely accommodate all users, including people walking, biking, driving, using transit, and those with disabilities.
Applies to future projects: The policy would guide new public works projects, private developments, and improvements to existing streets, covering everything from planning and design to reconstruction.
Flexible approach: The policy allows documented exceptions when factors like cost, safety, legal limits, or lack of a clear need make certain accommodations impractical, allowing decisions to factor in context versus taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Why do this now? Officials said adopting the policy supports goals in Geneva’s 2030 Strategic Plan, helps maintain the city’s Bicycle Friendly Community status, and strengthens Geneva’s competitiveness for transportation grants.
If approved by City Council, the policy would be incorporated into future updates of Geneva’s comprehensive plan and used as a guiding lens for street-related decisions.
The issue is expected to be taken up at the next City Council meeting.
Learn more about the Complete Streets policy on pages 4-10 in this city memo.
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