Transportation

Transportation is a critical focus for local and state government agencies, involving the planning, developing, and maintaining infrastructure that facilitates the movement of people and goods. Effective transportation systems are essential for economic growth, public safety, and quality of life. This directory provides articles on transportation, including discussions on related topics like Urban Planning, which addresses the integration of transportation networks with community development to create efficient and sustainable cities.

Fuel-efficient cars are forcing Washington State DOT officials to look at charging drivers by the mile to raise road revenue for construction costs.
Chicago and Elmhurst, Illinois, along with Chicago Transit Authority and a DuPage County agency received green fleet awards for reduced fuel usage.
Swift moving wildfire has shutdown LA’s 5 Freeway in the Santa Clarita area.
Sydney, Australia is experimenting with a new road surface that will combat the urban heat island effect and possibly carbon emissions as well
The City of Tuscaloosa, AL, is three years into a new downtown development plan focused on economic development. Find out how walkability plays a major role
An update on recent efforts around the US to convert transit-only areas into urbanized communities with housing and businesses
Attracting more than 15,000 users on an average weekend, a former rail bed in Dallas has led property values in that area to leap by 80 percent. Read about the Katy Trail and links to the National Trails Training Partnership’s guide to rail trail success.
Ocala, FL, and the state of Florida are teaming up to invest in traffic signal technology to improve traffic flow and cut emissions. Inside, research from the Federal Highway Administration and other reports
A new research report recommends the City of Detroit outsource its DOT operations in an effort to raise operational levels and cut costs. Details inside
Santa Monica has invested in rubberized sidewalks as a means of dealing with the constantly changing underground environment
U.S. Department of Transportation announces the availability of $100 million for New Ladders of Opportunity Initiative to connect more Americans with jobs
New Paltz, NY, is seeking grant funding to expand a rail trail network. The details of its plan and efforts to find federal funding
The Netherlands is experimenting with solar powered photo-luminescent powder to light its streets, rather than traditional lighting. The goal - a Smart Highway with fewer accidents and lower costs
Duracell recently sponsored a themed bus stop in Montreal, asking people to interact in order to turn on a battery powered heating unit. Learn about this sponsorship and others around the US
Seymour, CT, received a $400k grant from the Federal Highway Administration. See how the town’s master plan played a role in garnering the funding
New stop signs utilizing a 3D visual effect are being installed in Yavapai, Arizona, paid for in part by grant funding. With a new safety program from the USDOT, the signs are part of an effort to increase safety
According to new research, people ages 18-34 are driving less, and relying more on alternative modes of transportation. The trend will likely impact municipalities and their transportation policies
EPA has made $9 million in grant funding available for clean diesel projects to reduce diesel pollution and emissions exposure from the nation’s existing fleet of diesel engines
As the new mayor of Jersey City continues his efforts to streamline government, installing GPS devices on city vehicles is the latest effort to combat waste. Details of the program there and another in Wuhan, China.