State and local agencies would be tasked with evaluating and offsetting the carbon emissions caused by new transportation projects.
Under a draft rule proposed by Colorado's Department of Transportation, "state and local governments would need to consider, measure and potentially offset the climate-warming effects of transportation projects," reports Nathaniel Minor. "If the total emissions do not fit within a set budget, the releases would have to be offset through cleaner projects like new transit service, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, and local zoning decisions that result in more density."
In response, "[t]wo environmental groups cautiously lauded the proposed rule and said it comes at a crucial time for the state transportation agency." But the rule "could cause some friction between local governments that want certain projects built and the state, which would be in the position of enforcing the emissions budgets." Some critics worry that delaying road expansion projects "just keeps more cars on the road," but research consistently suggests that expanded roads encourage more drivers to use them.
"The state Transportation Commission will consider public comments on the proposed rule through Oct. 15 before voting at its November meeting."
FULL STORY: A Proposed Rule Would Target Colorado’s Polluting Road Projects
Infrastructure Funding Could Lead to Higher Carbon Emissions
Billions in federal infrastructure funding slated to go to states with few strings attached could fund roadway construction and widening projects that will raise greenhouse gas emissions and worsen climate change.
States Claim Highway Expansions Reduce Emissions
The argument is being used to channel climate funding to projects that expand automobile infrastructure, according to an analysis from Transportation for America.
Wales Cancels Major Road Building Projects
All road building and expansion projects are halted until they can pass strict new environmental requirements.
Florida Considers Legalizing ADUs
Current state law allows — but doesn’t require — cities to permit accessory dwelling units in single-family residential neighborhoods.
HUD Announces Plan to Build Housing on Public Lands
The agency will identify federally owned parcels appropriate for housing development and streamline the regulatory process to lease or transfer land to housing authorities and nonprofit developers.
Has President Trump Met His Match?
Doug Ford, the no-nonsense premier of Canada's most populous province, Ontario, is taking on Trump where it hurts — making American energy more expensive.
Can State Lawmakers Make the Case for Road Charges?
More state legislatures are considering fees based on vehicle miles traveled as a replacement for declining gas tax revenues.
10 States Follow Through on Promise to Put 3.3 Million EVs on the Road
Rebate programs are at the heart of collaborative success.
Surf’s Upcycling: Hawai‘i’s Latest Green Building Material is Recycled Surf Boards
“Surf Blocks” are fire-resistant, termite-proof, and close the loop on mountains of waste from the state’s beloved sport.
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