The Greater Ohio Policy Center (GOPC), has published How to Build Safe, Vibrant Streets in Ohio: A Guide for Non-Engineers.

The guide describes innovative approaches to making neighborhoods and streets calmer, safer, and more welcoming to people of all ages and abilities.  

The guide shares replicable projects from:  

•  Xenia, which built a bike lane that connects regional trails and draws cyclists into downtown

• Columbus, where a dedicated cycle track keeps drivers and cyclists separated 

• Mansfield, which will slow vehicles and make streets easier to walk as part of their downtown redevelopment strategy

• Youngstown, where right-sizing streets in downtown is saving money and connecting residents to events, housing, and work 

• Bexley, which is implementing a long-term vision for a walkable, bikeable city 

• Lorain, where 15+ organizations are using a collective impact model to make streets safer and more beautiful  

This guide will help local government staff, elected officials, local advocates, and their partners develop ‘complete streets,’ that are safe for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.  

"As Ohio’s champions for revitalization, we know that areas where people can comfortably walk and cycle are areas with high property values and low vacancy rates. This guide offers models for communities to consider as they work to revitalize,” said GOPC Executive Director Alison Goebel. 

The guide provides tips for implementing an active transportation project, funding sources communities in Ohio can access, and technical assistance programs at the state and federal levels that can help plan and fund projects. The showcased projects range from modest in scale to complete overhauls of a district streetscape. 

How to Build Safe, Vibrant Streets in Ohio: A Guide for Non-Engineers, is available here.

To learn more about GOPC's work on active transportation, visit our website's active transportation resources page.