ASSEMBLY TRANSPORTATION AND INDEPENDENT AUTHORITIES COMMITTEE

 

STATEMENT TO

 

SENATE, No. 147

 

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

DATED:  OCTOBER 17, 2022

 

      The Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee reports favorably Senate Bill No. 147.

      As reported, the bill requires the Department of Transportation (department) to implement a complete streets policy to plan, design, construct, maintain, and operate new and rehabilitated public highways and public transportation projects to provide safe access for all users.  The complete streets policy would require the consideration and implementation of design elements and infrastructure improvement projects that promote the ability of persons diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to travel independently.

      The bill also requires the department, as part of the complete streets policy, to develop universal design concepts that advance the mobility options for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and persons diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.  Additionally, the department is required to develop guidance and policies concerning the means by which the universal design concepts would be incorporated into the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and operation of new and rehabilitated public highways and public transportation projects.

      The department is required to encourage regional and local entities that apply for funding through the local aid program to adopt a complete streets policy consistent with the bill.

      As reported, Senate Bill No. 147 is identical to Assembly Bill No. 1116, which was also reported by the committee on this date.