Roads in Burlington may look a little “old school” when compared to major cities across the nation.
The Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission is working to change that by persuading the Burlington and West Burlington City Council to approve a “complete street” policy. (“Complete streets” include features like better pedestrian crossings and bike lanes along main roads)
Planning Director Zach James, thinks having complete streets may attract younger people…
“I hear a lot of things about improving the economy locally and attracting young professionals. I think these are the types of improvements that could make Burlington stand out from a lot of other communities similar sized that they are competing with across Iowa or the county. I think it’s a good way to differentiate themselves from those other communities.”
While attracting people to the area is important, James says their main push for the complete streets project is to improve the health of the community.
