Nine out of ten transportation projects cost more than projected. There is a new scientific explanation for this: Lying.
Wendell Cox writes in the European TechCentral: "There is a very simple incentive for large contractors to lie. It is profitable. The reward is more money. And, there is an incentive for public officials to believe the lie. The 'Edifice Complex,' which drives so many elected officials to build virtual monuments and to seek "legacy" is served by underestimating costs, since less costly projects are simpler to sell to governing bodies and the electorate than more costly projects."
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Liar, Liar

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
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Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
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MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
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