Gasoline price spikes are exposing a weakness in our transportation system: the lack of alternatives to highways.
"Aside from (gasoline prices)causing a pain in our personal budgets, the so-called "free market" is also exposing our transportation systems as unprepared to deal with the consequences of a long-term increase in gasoline prices. Although we are beset with steadily increasing congestion on our highways and airways, we allow our rail infrastructure to atrophy at a time when we most need it as an economical and fuel-efficient alternative.
Certainly, motorists are not happy. But where can they turn if gasoline prices force them to drive less and seek another mode? Business needs to ship raw materials or finished products, but doing so on increasingly crowded highways or by air is less and less cost-effective. Both are looking at rail as an alternative, but rail is underfunded, underdeveloped and unable to provide the desired level of service.
Thanks to Stu Nicholson
FULL STORY: Passenger rail could soften the impact of higher gas prices
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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.
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City of Culver City
Skagit Transit
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
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Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners