While it might not be at the front of your mind, the way streets are designed in your community impacts your likelihood of being involved in a crash, your ability to get around without a car, and the quality of air you breathe. Universal design is a street planning approach that prioritizes accessibility, mobility and usability. It’s centered on the vision that everyone should be able to comfortably and easily use our streets.
Instead of designing streets for cars, we should incorporate universal design and design streets to be vibrant spaces that support the many ways that people get around.
Asphalt art brightens streets, improves pedestrian visibility, and employs local artists.
Data shows asphalt art projects significantly reduce pedestrian crashes and unsafe driving behavior. Projects like these are also an opportunity to meaningfully engage community members and employ local artists.
Off-street bikeways make biking more accessible for all ages and abilities.
Protected bike lanes benefit all, offering cyclists safety from cars with separation of right-of-way.
Flexible seating gives space for people to gather and take breaks.
Flexible seating supports people of all ranges of mobility, providing places to rest or even gather together socially.
Raised crosswalks save lives.
They force drivers to slow down, improving pedestrian safety.
Street trees aren’t just for show.
Street trees improve air quality, reduce extreme heat risk and mitigate traffic noise.
Transit-Only Lanes
Transit-only lanes are helpful in moving people more efficiently and quickly, making public transit more reliable and frequent.
Wide Sidewalks
Minimum 14-feet sidewalks provide room for stopping and turning around in a wheelchair without slowing foot traffic.
Well-Lit Spaces
Lighting is important in improving safety and accessibility.
Streets should be universally designed for all our neighbors.
Learn more about Streets for People.
Our Streets Minneapolis works to put people first by transforming transportation and infrastructure.