The L.A. Metropolitan Transportation Authority's successful rapid bus service combines high-tech and low-tech solutions to deliver better transit service.
The MTA launched Rapid Bus in 2000 with two routes, modeled after the bus system of Curitiba, Brazil. The buses utilize electronic gear that make traffic signals hold green lights longer, and supervisors along the route aid drivers and assist passengers. "The result? Faster service: Rapid Buses complete their routes up to 30% faster than normal buses. And more riders: The buses are so popular--jammed, actually--that overall ridership along Wilshire is up 40% in two years."
Thanks to Christian Peralta
FULL STORY: Putting the Rapid Back in Rapid Transit

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.
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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
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