The new bill approved by the House Appropriations Committee "Provides for Smarter, More Efficient Amtrak Operations"; "Supports Aviation"; "Addresses Critical Housing Needs"; and "Funds Highway Spending", while cutting some critical programs.
"Over the committee's strong objections, Congress has passed major transportation authorization bills which established guaranteed levels of discretionary transportation spending. These laws amended the rules of the House to prevent consideration of appropriations bills unless they provide inflated levels of discretionary spending for certain transportation programs."
"The bill provides $900 million for Amtrak and includes significant financial and management reforms. The bill mandates that Amtrak reduce its operating subsidy which includes finding savings in food and beverage service, and first class service."
"Program Terminations
HOPE VI: -$99 million; Rural Housing and Economic Development: -$17 million; Section 108 loan guarantees: $4 million; Brownfields: -$10 million; FTA Small Starts: -$200 Million; Housing Counseling Assistance: -$45 million; National Defense Tank Vessel Construction Program: -$74 million; Open Roads Financing Pilot Program: -$100 million"
FULL STORY: FULL COMMITTEE PASSES FY07 TRANSPORTATION, TREASURY, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT BILL

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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In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.

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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.
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