Developers already have conduct traffic impact analysis to determine how their project will impact local streets. The new code now includes an analysis of how the traffic impact also applies to sidewalks, bicycle routes, and transit routes.

In the industry jargon this is called Pedestrian Level of Service and Bicycle Level of Service. Transportation engineers and planners can calculate a grade of A, B, C, etc. for a particular road based on its width, speed limit, etc. and the presence and size of bike lanes and sidewalks. More info on bike/ped level of service.

When a developer proposes a new project the city can actually grade them on how it impacts bicyclists and pedestrians. This is a clear and objective measure of whether or not a development contributes to a more livable city.

Does this increase development costs? NO! The formula used to analyze automobile traffic impact already includes a bike/ped option. There is no extra cost and very little time involved.