The agency’s director wants to change the city’s transportation priorities and provide more mobility options to residents.
Dallas established a Department of Transportation just last year, and Michael Rogers, the city’s new transportation director, envisions a more connected city less focused on cars. Rogers is taking steps to bring comprehensive transportation planning and multimodal networks to Dallas. In addition, he is behind the use of data analytics that brought electric scooters to the city and have helped guide pedestrian safety projects.
Emily Nonko reports that Rogers has also taken on the Texas Department of Transportation by challenging plans to widen Interstate 30 East, a move that city leaders described as "radical":
He pushed back, offering his own "guiding principles" for the redesign. They included better connections for cyclists and pedestrians, no highway expansion in height or width, and bringing the elevated portion of the road below grade to reconnect neighborhoods that have been torn apart by infrastructure development.
Rogers has plans to continue a shift away from a singular focus on road projects, develop a strategic mobility plan, and make public input an integral part of the planning process.
Still, Nonko points out that Dallas faces a long road and many hurdles in improving the region’s transportation system, particularly around transit. "A big criticism of Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s sprawling rail system: While the largest in the country, it’s inefficient and doesn’t effectively serve many dense neighborhoods."
FULL STORY: Dallas DOT Is Making Plans for a Better-Connected City
Dallas, Suburbs Clash Over DART Funding
The city voted to ‘fully fund’ its rapid transit system, but northern suburbs are moving to reduce funding.
Dallas Council Begrudgingly Keeps Downtown Streetcar Alive
Council members complain that the Oak Cliff Streetcar is a "vanity project" that drains money from other potential transit improvements.
The Right Planning Consultant Could Make All of the Difference
Between DART service optimization and deciding the fate of I-345, Dallas has big of decisions to make. The right consultant, who understands accurate framing of planning issues, could help choose a route that best serves Dallasites.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
Global Report Shows Urban Forests Failing to Meet Vital Standards
The study reveals significant gaps in urban forestry, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms, innovative planting solutions, and expanded tree canopy to combat climate change and improve urban health.
Freedom to Move: Investing in Transportation Choices for a Clean, Prosperous, and Just Future
This Union of Concerned Scientists study examines why and how to improve resource-efficient travel options to achieve diverse goals. It estimates that more efficient transport could save up to $201 billion in energy and $128 billion in health costs.
Opinion: Federal Government Must Continue Supporting Rural Housing Program
The incoming Congress will have a say in bolstering — or harming — the only federal housing program focused on affordable housing in rural areas.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Village of Glen Ellyn
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners