Safer Streets Initiative Approved in Westfield

The Westfield Council approved a resolution on Tuesday evening that the town is in support of the “National Complete Streets Coalition” program, which creates roadways with all users in mind.

Prior to the reading of the resolution, resident Lisa Braddock addressed the council to explain why they should consider adopting the plan.

She explained that based on the recent accidents involving pedestrians she decided to research ways Westfield could improve safety on their roads. Complete Streets, she said, allows pedestrians and cyclists to safety share roads with vehicles.

Braddock added that it could be as simple as installing a sidewalk on frequently traveled road or adding right side parking or bike lanes. Currently, 70 municipalities in five counties of New Jersey have adopted the program, she said.

“Complete streets are not only proven to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, but also automobile safety,” Braddock said.

She added that towns that adopt these programs benefit from increased private investment, higher property values and increased traffic to local businesses.

Braddock also offered to volunteer her time to coordinate the efforts of the program.

In order to implement the program, a town must plan, change their procedure and process, update their design, offer training and education and measure the performance of the program, according to the organization.