While much of the concern of how to regulate transportation network companies like Uber, Lyft, and Sidecar comes down to questions about safety and access, recent findings show that the apps have reduced DUI arrests in the City of Brotherly Love.
Jon Geeting updates the complicated issue of regulation of transportation network companies like Uber, Lyft, and Sidecar, where the cities of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are still negotiating with the state's Public Utilities Commission (PUC). For instance, "[the] latest development is that PUC judges have issued a cease-and-desist order to the companies, barring them from operating in the state. State senator Wayne Fontana - a [Pittsbugh Mayor Bill Peduto] ally - introduced a bill today that would go over PUC's head and legalize the services by creating a 'transportation network company' category in the Pennsylvania code. The idea is to tailor regulations specifically to the e-hailing apps, rather than treat them like regular taxis."
Geeting also cites the work of Nate Good, who recently posted findings of a correlation between transportation network companies coming on the market and reduced DUI arrests in Philadelphia. From Good's website:
After all ride sharing services were in effect (April 2013 through the end of 2013), the average number of DUIs per month dropped across the board by 11%, with those under 30 being mostly responsible for the drop:
- Overall: 1121.9 (11.1% decrease)
- Under 30: 450.9(18.5% decrease)
- Over 30: 671 (5.3% decrease)
Back in May, Uber itself (so consider the source) posted findings of reduced DUIs in cities where the service is allowed to operate.
Read the full story: Coincidence? Philly's had fewer DUI arrests since ride-sharing apps arrived
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Amtrak, CN end decades-long dispute with eight-year agreement
The new operating agreement establishes an updated framework for the companies to work together, including processes to resolve disputes.
Judges permit Denver to divert 77,000 acre feet from the Colorado River for reservoir expansion
Overuse and climate change have caused the Colorado River’s water levels to plummet.
NYC DOT wants faster, more permanent street upgrades
The city is examining ways to build more concrete infrastructure without getting entangled in 'decades-long' projects.
'Something we’ve never seen before:' rising utility rates could strain city finances nationwide
Data centers, climate change and other factors have caused utility rates in the United States to increase by 38% since 2020.
Trump to overrule local leaders, lease millions of acres of America’s Pacific Island territories’ seafloors to mining companies
International law says that the Indigenous people of America’s territories have a right to prior and informed consent regarding projects that impact their countries.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.
Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
KFH Group Inc.
Greater Baltimore Committee
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello