Prop T: STL City Department of Transportation

As election day approaches, we are keeping equitable, active transportation in mind. City of St. Louis voters will decide on Prop T on November 5th. Prop T creates a Charter change to establish a City Department of Transportation (City DOT)—a proposal that Trailnet has long advocated to have placed on the ballot. We are thrilled to discuss the opportunity that voters now face.  

At present, by City of St. Louis Charter, the majority of decisions involving streets in the City of St. Louis are made in collaboration between the Streets Department, Board of Public Service, City Planning, Alderpeople and consulting firms. With the passage of Prop T, the charter would change the Streets Department to become the City Department of Transportation, keeping its current vital services such as Refuse Collection, Traffic Lighting and Street Maintenance, while further expanding the department’s abilities. 

The City DOT could undertake long-range transportation planning and traffic engineering, which is not feasible under the 1914 Charter, which outlined the duties for the Streets Department. Additionally, the City DOT would be mandated to consider all sidewalk and street users. Trailnet believes both changes are critical to make our streets safer for ALL. This November, with a 60% majority vote, we can work together to create infrastructure with reduced danger, greater equity, and a strengthened sense of connected community.

Remember to make a plan to vote on Tuesday, November 5th.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Trailnet Policy Catalyst Charles Bryson at charles@trailnet.org.