The state’s department of transportation will have to consider potential greenhouse gas emissions and alter projects that don’t meet emissions reduction targets.

A 2023 Minnesota state law aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions “sets its sights squarely on transportation” by directing the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to consider climate impacts and demand for vehicle miles traveled in proposed highway and road expansion projects.
As Janet Moore explains in The Star Tribune, “If those calculations do not meet MnDOT's targets, the scope of the project must be altered ‘until it conforms,’ or it could be dropped, according a state working group that studied the new law.” A project can also include mitigating measures such as public transit, bike and pedestrian paths, environmental restoration, and roundabouts.
According to Jon Solberg, MnDOT's assistant division director for sustainability, “it's not unlike dealing with wetland mitigation, or crafting ways to comply with existing state and federal environmental laws when planning a new project. It will also encourage agencies, regional planning bodies and local governments to work together more to ensure the targets are met.”
The policy, which goes into effect next February, is part of a broader plan to reach net zero carbon emissions in the state by 2050. According to MnDOT, the agency is focusing on maintaining its existing road system and not planning major expansions.

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

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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