Complete Streets

How we support Complete Streets

Research

• Complete Streets Speed Impacts (in-progress, summer 2024 expected completion) — Conducted by Michigan State University and funded by MnDOT and the Local Road Research Board. Examine the differences in various speed metrics and provide guidance to help reduce the risks of traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities, particularly at locations that experience high volumes of non-motorized traffic.
• Impacts of Lane Conversions on Level of Service (2023): A 4-3 conversion, also known as a “road diet,” reconfigures a four-lane undivided roadway into a three-lane road. The space gained may be used for walking and biking infrastructure; adding safety features such as curb extensions and medians; or adding green infrastructure. While this can have safety benefits, losing two motor vehicle travel lanes could result in decreased motor vehicle level of service during certain hours of the day. This research produced new guidance to help local transportation agencies predict when the impacts to level of service may be unacceptable, and balance this data point with others in decision-making.
• Enhancing Pedestrian Experiences at Roundabouts (2023): Traffic roundabouts, where two or more roads intersect and vehicles travel around a central island, are safer and more efficient than traditional intersections. Public concerns about roundabout safety linger, however, particularly when new roundabouts are being planned and designed. Concerns are related to confusion over appropriate vehicle–pedestrian sequences, visibility of the entire intersection and safety in general. This study produced a guidance document with roundabout design elements for local agencies to help improve the pedestrian experience.
• Assessing the Economic Effects of Context Sensitive Main Street Highways in Small Cities (2022) — Conducted by the University of Minnesota and funded by MnDOT and the Local Road Research Board. Assesses the economic impacts of Complete Streets on small town business activities. Provides a consistent set of metrics that MnDOT and local governments can use to evaluate and communicate the impact of Complete Street projects along context-sensitive main street highways.
• How do Complete Streets Matter for Communities? The Case of Richfield, Minnesota (2020) — Conducted by the University of Minnesota and funded by MnDOT and the Local Road Research Board. Assesses the performance of Richfield’s Sweet Streets by evaluating the economic and noneconomic impact of the policy and facilities in the community in terms of quality of life and commerce.
• Complete Streets from Planning to Project: The Planning and Implementation of Complete Streets at Multiple Scales (2013) — Conducted by the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota and funded by MnDOT and the Local Road Research Board. Explores the variety of ways Complete Streets is conceptualized and institutionalized by various jurisdictions. Provides practical application insights for jurisdictions in Minnesota and elsewhere.
• Legal Review of Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Non-motorized Transportation (PDF) (2013) — Conducted by the Public Health Law Center at William Mitchell College of Law on behalf of MnDOT. Provides a review and analysis of Minnesota and federal laws and regulations relating to the pedestrian, bicycle, and other non-motorized transportation. The review was created by the Public Health Law Center. MnDOT has worked to make the document accessible. If you experience any issues accessing or using the document please contact email ADArequest.dot@state.mn.us.