States aren't the only ones looking for new ways to fund crumbling transportation infrastructure. Atlanta voters, for instance, will consider a $250 infrastructure bond proposal in the March election.
"On March 17, Atlanta voters will determine whether to give Mayor Kasim Reed permission to borrow cash to pay for new streetscape upgrades, bike lanes, bridges, lighting, public art, and some public buildings," reports Thomas Whetley.
Whetley provides an overview of how the $250 million bond would be allotted: "Officials are asking to approve $188 million aimed at improving streetscapes, bridges, and parks, plus another batch of about $64 million that would fund city buildings. The bulk of that cash would be geared toward so-called citywide projects that have a large impact. Atlanta City Council members would oversee a smaller portion — roughly $70 million — to pay for infrastructure and building upgrades specific to their districts."
The city of Atlanta's website for the bond, or "Renew Atlanta 2015" as it's called, includes a map of projects that would be funded by the bond. The map included 229 citywide projects, as described above, as well as "various" local projects. Public meetings are continuing through February. According to Wheatley, members of the public can still influence the final list of projects to be awarded funding by the bond.
FULL STORY: Clock ticking on $250 million infrastructure bond vote
Transportation Planning Reshuffled in Atlanta
The new Atlanta Department of Transportation has a new strategic plan, a new commissioner, and a whole lot of high hopes to live up to.
Atlanta and Suburbs to Hold Separate Transportation Sales Tax Votes in November
The 13 suburban cities of Fulton County agreed to a roads-only, .75-cent sales tax measure that needs to be approved by the county, while Atlanta voters will decide on a MARTA-only .50-cent sales tax. MARTA serves eight of the cities.
New Atlanta Law Requires ‘Cool Roofs’
Painting roofs with reflective coatings can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency, sometimes at a lower cost than traditional roof treatments.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.
San Antonio and Austin are Fusing Into one Massive Megaregion
The region spanning the two central Texas cities is growing fast, posing challenges for local infrastructure and water supplies.
Since Zion's Shuttles Went Electric “The Smog is Gone”
Visitors to Zion National Park can enjoy the canyon via the nation’s first fully electric park shuttle system.
Trump Distributing DOT Safety Funds at 1/10 Rate of Biden
Funds for Safe Streets and other transportation safety and equity programs are being held up by administrative reviews and conflicts with the Trump administration’s priorities.
German Cities Subsidize Taxis for Women Amid Wave of Violence
Free or low-cost taxi rides can help women navigate cities more safely, but critics say the programs don't address the root causes of violence against women.
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.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie