Major initiative to upgrade a transportation system trying to keep up with China's rapid economic growth includes high-speed trains and what is reportedly the world's largest bus.
"Traveling 60 mph faster than most of their predecessors, the trains can cut travel time by a third...state media reported...The tickets cost as much as 50% more than those for conventional trains. Already, the Internet is awash in criticism that the new service is out of the reach of migrant workers and others who need it most. Nothing comes easy for China's transportation system, which has been overwhelmed by the nation's staggering economic growth."
"The increasing industrial demands and mobility of China's 1.3 billion people have led the government to plan for 14 new national highways and the expansion of 12 major seaports and 10 airports, including those in Shanghai and Beijing, by 2010, the New China News Agency reported.
An 82-foot rapid-transit vehicle - with room for 300 passengers, it's reportedly the world's largest bus - was exhibited in March at a Shanghai convention and will be used in Beijing and Hangzhou."
FULL STORY: China launches high-speed rail
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths
Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.
Defunct Pittsburgh Power Plant to Become Residential Tower
A decommissioned steam heat plant will be redeveloped into almost 100 affordable housing units.
Trump Prompts Restructuring of Transportation Research Board in “Unprecedented Overreach”
The TRB has eliminated more than half of its committees including those focused on climate, equity, and cities.
Amtrak Rolls Out New Orleans to Alabama “Mardi Gras” Train
The new service will operate morning and evening departures between Mobile and New Orleans.
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.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
Custer County Colorado
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont