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 current law, which only required DOT to give due consideration to such facilities, allowing for exceptions under certain conditions. The bill also introduces new language that specifies the criteria under which exceptions can be made, including factors such as excessive costs, negative impacts in constrained environments, lack of need, and community refusal to maintain the facilities.

Additionally, the bill repeals existing provisions that allowed for broader discretion in establishing bikeways and pedestrian ways, thereby tightening the requirements. The DOT is tasked with creating rules to identify specific exceptions to the new mandate, but these exceptions must adhere to the outlined criteria, ensuring that the establishment of these facilities is prioritized in highway projects. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accessibility and safety for cyclists and pedestrians in Wisconsin.

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