This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Are Utah's streets complete?

That will be the focal point of a Wednesday workshop aimed at making the state's streets more friendly to pedestrians and bicyclists.

Transportation planner Michael Ronkin, recognized as one of the nation's leaders in the so-called "complete streets" movement, will discuss safer street designs for pedestrians and cyclists during a symposium between 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at the Salt Lake County Council chambers, 2001 S. State St.

Salt Lake County, which passed an ordinance last year requiring its Public Works Department to adopt a "complete streets" policy, will host the event.

"Complete streets are fundamental," Bill Nesper, director of the Bicycle Friendly America Program for the League of American Bicyclists, said Monday. "It really provides a foundation to build a more connected, active, sustainable transportation system for everyone."

The workshop also will feature John LaPlante, director of traffic engineering for the civil and structural engineering firm T.Y. Lin International, and Cynthia Hoyle, a longtime transportation planner and national advocate for livable communities and safe streets.

The free workshop is open to the public.

— Jeremiah Stettler