Starting in April, Houston will close 2.5 miles of streets to automobile traffic between 11 am and 3 pm. Additional street closures will follow in May.
Dug Begley and Mike Morris report on a pilot program in the city of Houston that will close certain streets to automobile traffic during the day in the hopes of attracting bikers and pedestrian. Mayor Annise Parker is quoted as describing the pilot project as “a way to acquaint ourselves with what is around those streets in a way we don't normally experience it going by car…”
In a separate article, Dan Solomon describes the pilot as “an interesting approach to take in Houston, which isn't necessarily known for its progressive transportation policies.” Solomon also anticipates confusion and frustration on the part of drivers who might be surprised but he temporary closures.
FULL STORY: City to test whether pedestrians, cyclists will use car-free streets

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.

Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.

From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
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