Connecticut, like many states, experienced significant increases in pedestrian and bicycle fatalities on roadways in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. To reverse that trend, the Connecticut Department of Transportation partnered with three municipalities and their regional planning organizations to participate in Smart Growth America’s Complete Streets Leadership Academies. Quick-build projects helped local leaders identify problem areas and test low-cost solutions, using before-and-after data to verify project success. For example, a $45,000 project in Waterbury, CT, reduced speeds on Grand Street, increased driver yield rates to pedestrians, and improved parking organization. Delivery vehicles also benefited from better loading/unloading space. Such projects demonstrated potential solutions, improving residents’ and travelers’ understanding of benefits like travel times, parking, and safety.
America's Transportation Awards 