The Hub 9/24/2021: Clean Air Council’s Weekly Round-up of Transportation News
“The Hub” is a weekly round-up of transportation related news in the Philadelphia area and beyond. Check back weekly to keep up-to-date on the issues Clean Air Council’s transportation staff finds important.
Clean Air Council’s pedestrian advocacy group, Feet First Philly, launched the second round of their public space enhancement mini-grant program. Everyone is encouraged to apply and enhance a public space of their choice. Applications are due on 11/8 at 11:59 pm. A grant information session is available on 9/29, register here to attend.
The Inquirer: Equity Issue of failing to improve the condition for intercity bus riders – Intercity bus services like Megabus provide a lower fare in comparison to Amtrak and other rail services and are frequently used by college students, low-income people, and recent immigrants. But these bus stops are usually along the curb with no infrastructure like benches, restroom, canopy, or trash can.
BillyPenn: SEPTA asking for riders’ feedback to create a better Regional Rail – SEPTA’s Regional Rail has various issues including a schedule that favors 9-to-5 commuters along with pricing and accessibility issues. SEPTA launched a survey to get riders’ feedback on how to revamp the Regional Rail as this is a part of their strategic plan called SEPTA Forward.
Bicycle Coalition: Bike Patrol Officers Pilot Program – The Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) announced a new pilot program where bicycle-riding officers will target illegally parked vehicles in bike and bus lanes between the Delaware Ave and 40th street, and the Spring Garden and Bainbridge. Currently, only five officers but will work on this program but it will take approximately 35 officers to cover the entire city of Philadelphia.
PlanPhilly: Bill to Ban Minor Traffic Stops – After a month-long debate a bill to ban police enforcement of vehicle stops for minor infractions, such as a loud muffler, moved forward. Currently, these stops disproportionately affect black drivers in comparison to other drivers. The bill will still allow officers to make legitimate public safety stops.
SMARTCITIESDIVE: $4 Billion for Transportation Carbon Reduction Initiatives – The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee set aside $4 billion to fund projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from a community level. This will help to incentivize states to reduce their transportation carbon emissions.
Image Source: BillyPenn
