News Update

First off, I wanted to point you to the Georgia Straight Online where an op-ed by Joe and me was published.

How is it that “unsustainable” Calgary has more sustainable transportation choices than the most livable region in the world? Well, there are many reasons. One obvious reason is that the province of B.C. decided to build the SkyTrain, which cost six times more than light rail would have cost us over the last three decades. This is only a symptom of a much larger issue in our region—a disconnect between land-use planning and transportation planning.

In other news… South Fraser OnTrax has always believed that building streetcars and light rail is about more than getting people from Point A to Point B. It is a community building tool that brings people together as well as brings increased economic activity. The US Federal government is now changing its rules for rapid transit funding to recognizes this fact.

In a major departure from Bush administration practice that could make it easier for Portland to grow its light rail and streetcar systems, the Obama administration said it will change the rules for funding mass transit projects.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced new funding guidelines for major transit projects will be based on livability issues such as economic development and environmental benefits – in addition to cost and fighting congestion.

You can read more at The Oregonian.