As both a major target of terrorism and a valuable evacuation tool, disaster planning officials are taking a closer look at the vulnerabilities and possibilities for mass transit.
"In many disaster scenarios, public transit is in the middle: Terrorists blow up buses and trains. An earthquake shakes loose BART's Transbay Tube.
But bus, subway and ferry operators are learning that buses, subways and ferries can be invaluable tools in dealing with the aftermath of terror attacks or natural disasters.
As Bay Area residents witnessed after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, a rail system like BART -- which survived when the Bay Bridge failed -- can become a vital emergency link when others fail.
Buses, key to evacuating New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, can also be used as ambulances or even shelter. Mississippi was so adamant about mobilizing public transit after Katrina that transportation authorities commandeered gasoline tankers that were deemed off-limits by the Federal Emergency Management Agency."
Disaster and public safety officials recently met in Southern California to discuss findings from past experiences.
FULL STORY: Authorities roll mass transit into post-disaster planning

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

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

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Why Bike Lanes Are Good: An Explainer for the US Transportation Secretary
Sean Duffy says there’s no evidence that bike lanes have benefits. Streetsblog — and federal agencies’ own data — beg to differ.

California Invests Additional $5M in Electric School Buses
The state wants to electrify all of its school bus fleets by 2035.

Austin Launches $2M Homelessness Prevention Fund
A new grant program from the city’s Homeless Strategy Office will fund rental assistance and supportive services.
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