Complete Streets Local Match Waived
The FTA and FHWA have waived the requirement for non-federal entities to match grant funding of Complete Streets projects. “The waiver will support the full consideration of public transportation in the development and implementation of Complete Street policies," the letter reads.
Matthew Gallagher
2023-03-21
As part of a new effort that would elevate landscape architectural best practices, the Federal Transit Administration and the Federal Highway Administration will now start providing more support to transit agencies working on Complete Streets planning projects. Specifically, the FTA and FHWA have waived the requirement for non-federal entities to match grant funding of Complete Streets projects.
The announcement letter states “The waiver will support the full consideration of public transportation in the development and implementation of Complete Street policies that require or encourage a safe, comfortable, integrated transportation network for all users, regardless of age, ability, income, ethnicity, or mode of transportation. The Administrator has determined that it is in the best interest of the Government not to require a State or local match.” This action reflects a priority of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to increase safe and accessible transportation options nationwide.
Landscape architects were at the forefront of the Complete Streets movement designing projects to safely accommodate all users. ASLA is a founding member of the National Complete Streets Coalition and has been an active advocate for national Complete Streets policies. This new federal investment highlights the importance of sustained advocacy efforts to federal policy makers.
A significant federal investment in Complete Streets is also a timely and necessary development for US climate action. As the world continues a sluggish pace of decarbonization, transportation remains the largest source of US emissions. Now, landscape architects working with units of local government will be empowered to lead on emissions reductions in this critical sector.
ASLA will continue to advocate for policies that enable landscape architects to reduce emissions, build climate resilience, protect public safety, and steward biodiverse ecosystems. For more information, please see the ASLA Climate Action Plan and Field Guide.