Legislators Advance ‘Complete Streets’ Bill with Hope to Transform Territory’s Roadways

The Rules and Judiciary Committee advanced nine pieces of legislation on Thursday including the Complete Streets Policy bill which aims to increase the usability of the roadways in the U.S. Virgin Islands by creating designated bike lanes, connected sidewalks, and taking into consideration those with disabilities.

According to the legislation, nearly 90 percent of the territory’s streets are without sidewalks, nearly 50 percent lack overhead lighting, and over 75 percent of streets have no walkable destination.

But one of the bill’s sponsors, Sen. Steven Payne Sr., said complete streets are “the wave of the future when it comes to designing our roadways and sidewalks” and “if you build it, they will come.”

Should the Complete Streets Policy bill be adopted as law, it would trigger the assembly of the Complete Streets Task Force comprised of the Department of Public Works as well as various other departments and stakeholders. This team would create the policy, and according to the bill itself would “plan, develop, and provide a more integrated multimodal transportation network that will enhance the quality of life of all Virgin Islanders.”

All committee members loved the grand vision of sweeping promenades, bike lanes, and connected sidewalks, but alas the issue of funding and feasibility for such a venture was raised.

“It’s definitely a far-reaching legislation,” said Committee Chair Sen. Milton Potter. “My only concern is whether or not we have the funding to make good on it. And that the task force will in fact do its job.”

After visiting Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Potter said he has witnessed how the integration of designated cycling and jogging lanes had a “tremendous impact on the quality of life of folks in the area.”