The 2022 "Action" plan eliminates a one-size-fits-all approach, replacing it with smarter, more flexible policies and planning that enable adaptability to Scottsdale's character areas, changing technology and opportunities to leverage funding and coordinate projects.

For example, the TAP 2022 no longer includes policy dictating access to a path within a half mile of every home. While that might make sense in the Scottsdale's more urban character area, it's impractical in a character area of planned communities that have walls blocking access to the paths.

A rigid implementation plan that stipulates use of a certain type of technology that may become outdated has been replaced with a plan that includes pilot programs to continually evaluate and consider emerging technology.

Finally, the more rigid approach of narrowly defining funding for projects has been replaced with an approach that encourages saving money and time through departmental, interdepartmental and interagency coordination.

Over the past 13 years, the city has widened roads to accommodate more traffic and built out roads to new development. More recently, however, traffic growth has slowed, and more people are valuing open space over more development.

The TAP 2022 prioritizes safe and accessible travel for all transportation users and supports active transportation for a healthier, more active lifestyle. One of the most notable changes with the TAP 2022 is a reclassification of many of Scottsdale's streets to reflect reduced traffic volumes. While 5% of streets need additional capacity, many others have been reclassified to reduce the number of required lanes, enabling them to be transformed into "Complete Streets" that are safer and more comfortable for bicycles and pedestrians.

Ultimately, encouraging and providing better access to multimodal transportation is a "win-win" as it also reduces traffic congestion for drivers and improves air quality for all of us.