Assembly Bill 334 mandates that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) must establish bikeways and pedestrian ways in all new highway construction and reconstruction projects funded by state or federal funds, a policy known as "complete streets." This requirement replaces the previous standard, which only required DOT to give due consideration to such facilities, and it introduces specific criteria under which exceptions can be made. The bill also grants DOT the authority to create rules that outline these exceptions, which can only be based on specified conditions, such as excessive costs or lack of community need.

The bill repeals certain existing provisions that allowed for more lenient considerations regarding the establishment of bikeways and pedestrian ways. Specifically, it removes the previous requirement for municipal approval for state-funded projects and clarifies that exceptions to the new requirement can only be made under strict criteria, including a review by the secretary of transportation or a knowledgeable designee. This legislative change aims to enhance accessibility and safety for non-motorized users in highway projects across Wisconsin.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 84.01(35)(b), 84.01