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
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Wales Cancels Major Road Building Projects
All road building and expansion projects are halted until they can pass strict new environmental requirements.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
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The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
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The States Losing Rural Delivery Rooms at an Alarming Pace
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The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs
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DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint
Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.
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.
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Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)