Edina Council Approves Living Streets Policy

Edina’s Living Streets Policy—a comprehensive effort to make the city’s streets safer and more pleasant for motorists, pedestrians and bikers—received the unanimous approval of the Edina Council on Tuesday.

The policy, which flows from goals outlined in the city’s 2008 comprehensive plan, calls for tree canopies, pedestrian lighting, landscaping, bike lanes, parking bays and “traffic calming” medians to improve neighborhoods around Edina.

“Where we are with this is a long time coming, and this represents an enormous amount of work, of creativity, of commitment,” Edina council member Mary Brindle said. “I look forward to seeing this come to reality.”

The Edina Transportation Committee has been working with staff since May 2011 to address residents’ concerns about speeding and stop sign violations on the city’s 487 miles of roadway.

“It’s not just automobiles, it’s not just biking or walking, but it’s all those along with buses and public transportation,” said Paul Nelson, the transportation committee chair. “We hope the streets will enhance the community character.”