Transportation’s Role in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
On Earth Day, US Department of Transportation (US DOT) Secretary Ray LaHood presented a report, Transportation’s Role in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which was mandated by the Energy and Security Independence Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-140). The study evaluated four groups of strategies to reduce GHG emissions:
- Introducing low-carbon fuels;
- Increasing vehicle fuel economy;
- Improving transportation system efficiency; and
- Reducing carbon-intensive travel activity.
The study also evaluated two cross-cutting strategies:
- Aligning transportation planning and investments to achieve GHG reduction
objectives; and
- Pricing carbon.
The Executive Summary, Volume 1-Synthesis Report and Volume 2-Technical Report are included in a 605-page document located at http://ntl.bts.gov/lib/32000/32700/32779/DOT_Climate_Change_Report_-_April_2010_-_Volume_1_and_2.pdf .
US DOT Policy Statement on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and Recommendations
In Mid-March US DOT issued a policy statement to reflect its support for the development of “fully integrated active transportation networks.” The statement directs agencies “to plan, fund and implement improvements to their walking and bicycling networks, including linkages to transit.” Specific recommendations include:
- Consider walking and bicycling as equals with other transportation modes
- Ensure transportation choices for people of all ages and abilities, especially children
- Go beyond minimum design standards
- Integrate bicycle and pedestrian accommodation on new, rehabilitated and limited access bridges
- Collect data on walking and biking trips
- Set mode share targets for walking and bicycling and tracking them over time
- Remove snow from sidewalks and shared-use paths
- Improve nonmotorized facilities during maintenance projects
The full statement expands on these recommendations and includes an appendix of key statues and regulations regarding walking and bicycling. The document is located at http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2010/bicycle-ped.html
Leveraging the Partnership: DOT, HUD & EPA Program for Sustainable Communities
US DOT recently released a reference document to assist communities in identifying resources to support their efforts to promote livable and sustainable communities. The guide issued with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is an outgrowth of the partnership formed between the agencies in 2009. The guide includes funding and technical resources from the three agencies with a focus on their connection to the principles of the partnership which include: providing more transportation choices; promoting equitable affordable housing; enhancing economic competitiveness; supporting existing communities, coordinating and leveraging federal policies and investment; and valuing communities and neighborhoods. The document is located at: www.epa.gov/dced/.../partnership/2010_04_leveraging_the_partnership.pdf
Senate EPW Continues to Discuss Authorization Topics
SAFETEA-LU program authorizations have been extended through December 31, 2010. Progress towards on a new bill is mired in lack of options and consensus on how to fund an approximate $500 billion multi-year bill. However, since early March, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has held several hearings focused on policy and program issues related to authorization of a new program. Recorded Webcasts and panelist testimony can be found on the Committee’s Hearing Web page at http://epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Home
Hearings of note include:
March 3- Importance of Transportation Investments to the National Economy and Jobs
March 11-Federal, State and Local Partnerships to Accelerate Transportation Benefits
March18-Mobility and Congestion in Urban and Rural Areas
March 24-Opportunities to Improve Energy Security and the Environment through Transportation Policy
April 14-Opportunities to Improve Transportation Safety
