The world is changing, and some state departments of transportation are still stuck in the 20th century. New research provides guidance for DOTs looking to break old habits of car dependency and obsessions with level of service.

An article by Daniel C. Vock notes the increasing number of controversies surrounding the practices of state departments of transportation designing roads that cut through communities:
As urban areas have become more popular, so-called smart growth advocates who want walkable neighborhoods, vibrant shopping districts and safe passage for cyclists and pedestrians frequently criticize state DOTs -- which were originally called “highway departments” -- for allowing fast vehicle speeds to take precedence instead.
Vock's work here is to amplify the messaging of advocates at Smart Growth America, which recently published a series of blog posts sharing research to inform the reform of state DOT practices.
Vock lists the lessons from Smart Growth America's research as follows:
- Keep it simple.
- There Are Drawbacks to 'On Time, Under Budget.'
- You're Measuring Success Wrong.
- Community Relations -- and Who Handles Them -- Matter.
- Don’t Ignore Land Use.
- No, Really, Don’t Ignore Land Use.
- It’s Not Always the DOT’s Fault.
- Change Has to Be Intentional.
FULL STORY: 8 Ways to Improve State DOTs, According to Smart Growth Advocates

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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