WHEREAS, current transportation infrastructure standards on lane widths, bridge design, sound barriers, street lighting and other facets for construction and reconstruction do not take into account the fixed rights-of-ways; and existing infrastructure most often found in high density urban areas; and

WHEREAS, cities must request variances on a project by project basis if the project needs vary from current transportation infrastructure standards; and

WHEREAS, requesting variances results in delays in project design approvals which lead to higher costs,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The U.S. Conference of Mayors calls upon the U.S. Department of Transportation and Congress to establish a set of standards for urban areas which will reflect the unique situations found in cities and thereby facilitate design approvals.