The document discusses Mission CONNECT, which advocates for expanded mobility and transit options between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. It summarizes the organization's goals of improving access to jobs, housing and economic opportunities through a regional rail or commuter system. The document also outlines potential station areas along the proposed route and estimates ridership projections, arguing that a connected transit system would improve quality of life and attract talent to the region.
Andrew - Allegheny County Transit AnalysisAndrew Ritchie
This document analyzes public transit access and economic mobility in Allegheny County, PA. It finds that areas with longer average commute times have lower odds of escaping poverty. Maps show population density and changes from 2000-2010 overlaid with bus routes. Denser urban areas have better transit access while outlying suburbs have poorer access. Advocacy groups call for improved safety and expanded routes/service in areas like Penn Hills and Garfield that suffer from lack of adequate transit. Millennials moving to the region will increase demands on public transit. Future funding through Act 89 aims to improve service.
This document discusses next steps for building a connected super region between New Orleans and Baton Rouge through improved public transportation. It recommends expanding education on transit and transit-oriented development, developing a commuter rail implementation plan, forming an advisory council, prioritizing walkability and bike access, conducting a transit-oriented development strategic plan, and performing a cost-benefit analysis. Examples from other regions like Denver and Minneapolis are provided. Federal grant opportunities are also outlined. Working together regionally is emphasized as no single city can accomplish this transformation alone.
The document discusses the economic and transportation benefits of restoring passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. It notes that over 58,000 people commute between the two cities each day, and that number is growing rapidly. Passenger rail could accommodate these commuters more effectively than the increasingly congested highways. It would also provide transportation options for the many low-income and car-less residents across the region. Restoring passenger rail service would cost around $260 million to implement, far less than the over $1 billion it would take to expand the highways. It is presented as a more fiscally responsible and resilient transportation solution that could also spur economic development around stations.
In 2009 I was the John J Marchi Visiting Scholar in Public Policy at the City University of New York. These are my slides from the public Marchi lecture I gave there focusing on justice in distribution of transit services, with Manhattan getting the lion's share compared to the other borough.
Dr. Richard Voith discusses recent trends and occurrences in the transportation sector at the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission event Changing Lanes.
NJ Future Evans bloustein 20th anniv reconnecting jobs to transit 4 26-12New Jersey Future
The document summarizes research on connecting jobs and transit in New Jersey. It finds that while NJ has an extensive transit system, most job growth since 1980 has occurred in decentralized locations only accessible by car. This has led to increased traffic, longer commutes and emissions. The research identifies the top transit hubs in NJ and provides data on station characteristics and surrounding neighborhoods to help prioritize transit-oriented development investments that put jobs back near transit. The goal is to strengthen existing transit nodes and increase intra-state transit commuting beyond the current 5% rate.
Supported by The Rockefeller Foundation, this ebook highlights a dozen of CityLab's favorite stories from the 2014 series on how Americans will travel tomorrow.
U.S. Bus Rapid Transit: 10 High-Quality Features and the Value Chain of Firms...The Rockefeller Foundation
Bus rapid transit (BRT) is increasingly being considered in cities across the United States as a reliable and cost-effective public transit mode. A large part of the appeal of BRT is its flexibility, offering a choice of system features that can be adapted to each community’s needs and constraints. As more U.S. cities look to BRT, they will need to understand the value chain that provides the vehicles, technology, services and financing needed to create a high-quality BRT system.
Andrew - Allegheny County Transit AnalysisAndrew Ritchie
This document analyzes public transit access and economic mobility in Allegheny County, PA. It finds that areas with longer average commute times have lower odds of escaping poverty. Maps show population density and changes from 2000-2010 overlaid with bus routes. Denser urban areas have better transit access while outlying suburbs have poorer access. Advocacy groups call for improved safety and expanded routes/service in areas like Penn Hills and Garfield that suffer from lack of adequate transit. Millennials moving to the region will increase demands on public transit. Future funding through Act 89 aims to improve service.
This document discusses next steps for building a connected super region between New Orleans and Baton Rouge through improved public transportation. It recommends expanding education on transit and transit-oriented development, developing a commuter rail implementation plan, forming an advisory council, prioritizing walkability and bike access, conducting a transit-oriented development strategic plan, and performing a cost-benefit analysis. Examples from other regions like Denver and Minneapolis are provided. Federal grant opportunities are also outlined. Working together regionally is emphasized as no single city can accomplish this transformation alone.
The document discusses the economic and transportation benefits of restoring passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. It notes that over 58,000 people commute between the two cities each day, and that number is growing rapidly. Passenger rail could accommodate these commuters more effectively than the increasingly congested highways. It would also provide transportation options for the many low-income and car-less residents across the region. Restoring passenger rail service would cost around $260 million to implement, far less than the over $1 billion it would take to expand the highways. It is presented as a more fiscally responsible and resilient transportation solution that could also spur economic development around stations.
In 2009 I was the John J Marchi Visiting Scholar in Public Policy at the City University of New York. These are my slides from the public Marchi lecture I gave there focusing on justice in distribution of transit services, with Manhattan getting the lion's share compared to the other borough.
Dr. Richard Voith discusses recent trends and occurrences in the transportation sector at the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission event Changing Lanes.
NJ Future Evans bloustein 20th anniv reconnecting jobs to transit 4 26-12New Jersey Future
The document summarizes research on connecting jobs and transit in New Jersey. It finds that while NJ has an extensive transit system, most job growth since 1980 has occurred in decentralized locations only accessible by car. This has led to increased traffic, longer commutes and emissions. The research identifies the top transit hubs in NJ and provides data on station characteristics and surrounding neighborhoods to help prioritize transit-oriented development investments that put jobs back near transit. The goal is to strengthen existing transit nodes and increase intra-state transit commuting beyond the current 5% rate.
Supported by The Rockefeller Foundation, this ebook highlights a dozen of CityLab's favorite stories from the 2014 series on how Americans will travel tomorrow.
U.S. Bus Rapid Transit: 10 High-Quality Features and the Value Chain of Firms...The Rockefeller Foundation
Bus rapid transit (BRT) is increasingly being considered in cities across the United States as a reliable and cost-effective public transit mode. A large part of the appeal of BRT is its flexibility, offering a choice of system features that can be adapted to each community’s needs and constraints. As more U.S. cities look to BRT, they will need to understand the value chain that provides the vehicles, technology, services and financing needed to create a high-quality BRT system.
The document provides an overview of Louisiana's process to update its statewide transportation plan from 2003. It discusses the plan's horizon year of 2044 and focus on economic growth. The update process involves extensive public outreach, needs assessments, and advisory councils across various transportation modes. The transportation policy committee will serve as the final decision-making body to establish priorities and advise on policies to support Louisiana's existing and future industries and economic growth.
The Small Enterprise Foundation aims to alleviate poverty through microcredit in rural South Africa, where unemployment and lack of income are major problems. It provides loans to form microbusinesses, with clients forming groups to jointly guarantee loans. Research found that SEF clients experienced improved economic well-being and reduced domestic violence and improved HIV/AIDS outcomes. However, reaching the very poor presents challenges like lower average loan sizes and greater vulnerability if businesses fail. SEF's experience shows that operating rurally can balance costs with productivity given sufficient population density.
The document discusses economic ties and commuting patterns across Southeast Louisiana, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Houma-Thibodaux. It finds that workers frequently commute between parishes and metropolitan areas, indicating shared industries, suppliers, investors, and workforce between the regions. Analysis of healthcare industry jobs and commuting to Touro Hospital in New Orleans demonstrates jobs span all wage and skill levels, with many workers living within 10 miles.
This document outlines a strategy to revitalize an area of New Orleans called the BioDistrict through economic development, job growth, and improved health outcomes. The vision is for the BioDistrict to become a thriving hub of bioscience, healthcare, education, and business. Key areas of focus include developing bioscience centers of excellence, improving workforce training programs aligned with industry needs, expanding research collaborations between academic and corporate partners, and catalyzing new development opportunities. The strategy identifies several key development areas within the BioDistrict and proposes projects focused on industries like research and development, healthcare, education, and residential and commercial development. The goal is for the BioDistrict to become a national model for urban revitalization.
The document discusses the formation of a coalition to advocate for improved public transit in Baton Rouge. It summarizes the coalition's recommendations, which include establishing a dedicated funding source through a 10-year, 10.6 mill property tax that would generate $18 million annually. The tax would be used to overhaul the bus system, expanding routes, increasing frequency, and building transit hubs. Improved transit is presented as key to addressing traffic congestion and access to opportunities. Charts show Baton Rouge lags peer cities in per capita transit funding and relies more heavily on fares.
Amtrak has seen steady ridership growth over the past decade. In fiscal year 2011, Amtrak set new ridership records, carrying over 30 million passengers for the first time. While Amtrak operates fewer routes now than when it started in 1971, it carries over 82,000 passengers daily on its 305 daily trains. Looking to the future, population growth is expected to concentrate around urban areas, increasing pressure on transportation networks. Intercity passenger rail can help meet this growing demand through increased frequencies and new corridor routes built upon the existing long distance network.
This document summarizes efforts in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to improve the city's underfunded and poorly performing public transit system. A Blue Ribbon Commission was formed in 2011 and recommended overhauling the transit governance structure, increasing funding through a dedicated revenue source, and launching a public campaign. A coalition of community groups conducted extensive public outreach and education events to build support. In April 2012, voters approved the transit funding measure 54% to 48% in Baton Rouge and 58% to 42% in Baker, allowing the system to avoid major service cuts.
The document provides information about an alternative analysis and health impact assessment conducted for the SR 50 Bus Rapid Transit project in Orlando, Florida. The summary is:
1) The analysis evaluated different transit mode options and alignments for the 31-mile SR 50 corridor to improve mobility and connect jobs, education, and other destinations.
2) A health impact assessment was also conducted to understand how the project could impact physical, social, and emotional health by improving access, mobility, economic opportunities, and safety.
3) The recommended alternative was bus rapid transit service along most of the corridor, with express bus service in some sections, to provide faster, more reliable transit while catalyzing development.
2011 APA Positioning Planning Depts - Washington DCJoseph Horwedel
One of three presentations made at the National Planning Conference in Boston in 2011 on Positioning Planning Departments in difficult times. This is the presentation made by Harriett Tregoning from Washington D.C.
The document summarizes the results of a regional poll of 800 residents in 7 parishes along the Baton Rouge to New Orleans corridor on quality of life and transportation issues. Key findings include that residents express affection for their neighborhoods but have concerns about issues like traffic, housing costs and energy costs. They value walkable neighborhoods and prefer solutions like expanding public transit and building new bike/walking paths over widening roads. A majority support passenger rail connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans and believe it could help reduce traffic and boost economic growth.
Bexar County's transportation system is facing challenges from population growth and declining oil production, relying heavily on automobiles. This drains wealth as transportation costs rise faster than income. Low-income families spend the largest share of their income on transportation and housing. Current funding sources are drying up while local initiatives explore new public transit options and state legislation may allow local taxes or fees for transportation infrastructure with voter approval.
This is the presentation Michael Skipper, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Planning Office, delivered to the Transit Citizen Leadership Academy of Septemb
The document summarizes the work of the Southeast Tennessee Valley SDAT team that was assembled by the AIA's Center for Communities by Design. The team conducted a design assessment of the region to address challenges related to population growth, the environment, and the economy. They developed recommendations focused on areas like regional cooperation, environmental protection, education, and land use planning to help create a more sustainable future for the region.
The document discusses transportation planning for the Baton Rouge metropolitan area. It provides details on the metropolitan planning organization such as the population it serves, its long range transportation plan, and funding sources. It also summarizes projects funded from 2006-2010 and discusses air quality planning, population growth trends, and livability initiatives in the area including the Green Light Plan and proposals for commuter rail and complete streets.
The document summarizes a public meeting to discuss a study evaluating options for regional economic growth in Western Chester County while preserving quality of life. Over 40 concepts were suggested to enhance economic growth. Meeting goals included gathering input on priority initiatives and addressing perceptions about the region. Key topics discussed included demographics, economic and transportation characteristics, land use issues, and business/industry opportunities in the region.
The George Washington region is growing rapidly and faces significant transportation challenges. The population has grown 400% since 1960 and is projected to reach 600,000 by 2035. Transportation needs through 2035 have been identified as over $10 billion, but only $2.5 billion in revenues have been identified, leaving a $7.5 billion shortfall. The region must choose between staying on its current course and facing increased congestion, or pursuing additional funding and adapting growth policies to improve transportation and sustainability. Regional cooperation on projects and scenario planning will be important to address the region's critical missing transportation links and complex issues over the coming decades.
The document summarizes a health impact assessment conducted for the proposed SR 50 Bus Rapid Transit project in Orlando, Florida. The assessment analyzed how the project could impact physical health, safety, quality of life, economic development and land use. It identified obesity, diabetes, asthma and traffic crashes as current health issues in the study area. The assessment found that the BRT could help address these issues by promoting transit, walking and bicycling, which in turn could increase physical activity and economic opportunities. It provided recommendations to fund the BRT and adopt complete streets policies to maximize the project's health benefits.
NFTA Metro Route Restructuring
Presented by: James Morrell, Manager, Service Planning, NFTA
Hal Morse, Executive Director, Greater Buffalo-Niagara Region Transportation Council
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) implemented a major route restructuring
initiative on October 31, 2010; a plan which required extensive organizational planning and community participation. The restructuring included adjusting service levels to make the entire system more efficient and increase passenger revenues. Buses now run more frequently over the heaviest used routes, and less frequently over lesser-used portions. This presentation will outline the steps needed to restructure service to be more efficient and cost effective.
Multi-Modal Transportation in North Texas: Increasing Connectivity Between Jo...Rail~Volution
Where are living wage jobs? Where is high-quality, affordable workforce housing? What are the most pressing health issues and where are they concentrated? How well does the region’s transportation system connect the income, housing and health needs of individuals and families? How can multi-modal transportation make the region healthier, stronger and more resilient?
Join local and national experts on Regional Day for a lively discussion about these topics—including the potential of predictive analytics to help transportation systems become more efficient, safer and easier to use. At the end of Regional Day, meet with colleagues from your own communities to share your insights and plan next steps.
Moderator: Regina Montoya, Chair, Mayor’s Task Force on Poverty, Dallas, Texas
Jeffrey Tumlin, Principal, Nelson\Nygaard Consulting Associates, Inc., San Francisco, California
Craig Adelman, Director of Transit Oriented Development, Low Income Investment Fund, San Francisco, California
Melinda Pollack, AICP, Vice President, Enterprise Community Partners, Denver, Colorado
Dan Burden, Director of Inspiration and Innovation, Blue Zones, Minneapolis, Minnesota
John Fregonese, President, Fregonese Associates, Portland, Oregon
Karla Weaver, AICP, Program Manager, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Arlington, Texas
Elizabeth Sobel Blum, Senior Community Development Advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Dallas, Texas
Michael Sorrell, Esq., President, Paul Quinn College, Dallas, Texas
Dr. Ruben Amarashingham, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer, Parkland Center for Clinical Innovation, Dallas, Texas
Walter Bialas, Vice President, Director of Research Dallas, JLL, Dallas, Texas
Larry Tubb, Senior Vice President, System Planning, Cook Children's , The Center for Children's Health, Fort Worth, Texas
The document discusses regional planning efforts in the Delaware Valley region to address changes in travel patterns. It describes how the regional transportation network was originally built around rail lines connecting outlying areas to Philadelphia's center city, but travel is now increasingly suburb-to-suburb. The regional planning agency, DVRPC, is pursuing initiatives like prioritizing investment in centers, revising bus networks to match new travel demands, promoting transit-oriented development, and leveraging other planning efforts to maximize the impact of investments and support more sustainable development patterns.
This document discusses the concept of livability and provides examples of how different transportation agencies have promoted livability through policies, partnerships, and design. Livability involves creating healthy, sustainable communities with strong neighborhoods, vibrant town centers, access to jobs and opportunities, and integration of land use and transportation. Case studies show how agencies have used policies supporting transit-oriented development, partnerships with local groups, and street design changes to improve livability at various scales.
The document provides an overview of Louisiana's process to update its statewide transportation plan from 2003. It discusses the plan's horizon year of 2044 and focus on economic growth. The update process involves extensive public outreach, needs assessments, and advisory councils across various transportation modes. The transportation policy committee will serve as the final decision-making body to establish priorities and advise on policies to support Louisiana's existing and future industries and economic growth.
The Small Enterprise Foundation aims to alleviate poverty through microcredit in rural South Africa, where unemployment and lack of income are major problems. It provides loans to form microbusinesses, with clients forming groups to jointly guarantee loans. Research found that SEF clients experienced improved economic well-being and reduced domestic violence and improved HIV/AIDS outcomes. However, reaching the very poor presents challenges like lower average loan sizes and greater vulnerability if businesses fail. SEF's experience shows that operating rurally can balance costs with productivity given sufficient population density.
The document discusses economic ties and commuting patterns across Southeast Louisiana, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Houma-Thibodaux. It finds that workers frequently commute between parishes and metropolitan areas, indicating shared industries, suppliers, investors, and workforce between the regions. Analysis of healthcare industry jobs and commuting to Touro Hospital in New Orleans demonstrates jobs span all wage and skill levels, with many workers living within 10 miles.
This document outlines a strategy to revitalize an area of New Orleans called the BioDistrict through economic development, job growth, and improved health outcomes. The vision is for the BioDistrict to become a thriving hub of bioscience, healthcare, education, and business. Key areas of focus include developing bioscience centers of excellence, improving workforce training programs aligned with industry needs, expanding research collaborations between academic and corporate partners, and catalyzing new development opportunities. The strategy identifies several key development areas within the BioDistrict and proposes projects focused on industries like research and development, healthcare, education, and residential and commercial development. The goal is for the BioDistrict to become a national model for urban revitalization.
The document discusses the formation of a coalition to advocate for improved public transit in Baton Rouge. It summarizes the coalition's recommendations, which include establishing a dedicated funding source through a 10-year, 10.6 mill property tax that would generate $18 million annually. The tax would be used to overhaul the bus system, expanding routes, increasing frequency, and building transit hubs. Improved transit is presented as key to addressing traffic congestion and access to opportunities. Charts show Baton Rouge lags peer cities in per capita transit funding and relies more heavily on fares.
Amtrak has seen steady ridership growth over the past decade. In fiscal year 2011, Amtrak set new ridership records, carrying over 30 million passengers for the first time. While Amtrak operates fewer routes now than when it started in 1971, it carries over 82,000 passengers daily on its 305 daily trains. Looking to the future, population growth is expected to concentrate around urban areas, increasing pressure on transportation networks. Intercity passenger rail can help meet this growing demand through increased frequencies and new corridor routes built upon the existing long distance network.
This document summarizes efforts in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to improve the city's underfunded and poorly performing public transit system. A Blue Ribbon Commission was formed in 2011 and recommended overhauling the transit governance structure, increasing funding through a dedicated revenue source, and launching a public campaign. A coalition of community groups conducted extensive public outreach and education events to build support. In April 2012, voters approved the transit funding measure 54% to 48% in Baton Rouge and 58% to 42% in Baker, allowing the system to avoid major service cuts.
The document provides information about an alternative analysis and health impact assessment conducted for the SR 50 Bus Rapid Transit project in Orlando, Florida. The summary is:
1) The analysis evaluated different transit mode options and alignments for the 31-mile SR 50 corridor to improve mobility and connect jobs, education, and other destinations.
2) A health impact assessment was also conducted to understand how the project could impact physical, social, and emotional health by improving access, mobility, economic opportunities, and safety.
3) The recommended alternative was bus rapid transit service along most of the corridor, with express bus service in some sections, to provide faster, more reliable transit while catalyzing development.
2011 APA Positioning Planning Depts - Washington DCJoseph Horwedel
One of three presentations made at the National Planning Conference in Boston in 2011 on Positioning Planning Departments in difficult times. This is the presentation made by Harriett Tregoning from Washington D.C.
The document summarizes the results of a regional poll of 800 residents in 7 parishes along the Baton Rouge to New Orleans corridor on quality of life and transportation issues. Key findings include that residents express affection for their neighborhoods but have concerns about issues like traffic, housing costs and energy costs. They value walkable neighborhoods and prefer solutions like expanding public transit and building new bike/walking paths over widening roads. A majority support passenger rail connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans and believe it could help reduce traffic and boost economic growth.
Bexar County's transportation system is facing challenges from population growth and declining oil production, relying heavily on automobiles. This drains wealth as transportation costs rise faster than income. Low-income families spend the largest share of their income on transportation and housing. Current funding sources are drying up while local initiatives explore new public transit options and state legislation may allow local taxes or fees for transportation infrastructure with voter approval.
This is the presentation Michael Skipper, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Planning Office, delivered to the Transit Citizen Leadership Academy of Septemb
The document summarizes the work of the Southeast Tennessee Valley SDAT team that was assembled by the AIA's Center for Communities by Design. The team conducted a design assessment of the region to address challenges related to population growth, the environment, and the economy. They developed recommendations focused on areas like regional cooperation, environmental protection, education, and land use planning to help create a more sustainable future for the region.
The document discusses transportation planning for the Baton Rouge metropolitan area. It provides details on the metropolitan planning organization such as the population it serves, its long range transportation plan, and funding sources. It also summarizes projects funded from 2006-2010 and discusses air quality planning, population growth trends, and livability initiatives in the area including the Green Light Plan and proposals for commuter rail and complete streets.
The document summarizes a public meeting to discuss a study evaluating options for regional economic growth in Western Chester County while preserving quality of life. Over 40 concepts were suggested to enhance economic growth. Meeting goals included gathering input on priority initiatives and addressing perceptions about the region. Key topics discussed included demographics, economic and transportation characteristics, land use issues, and business/industry opportunities in the region.
The George Washington region is growing rapidly and faces significant transportation challenges. The population has grown 400% since 1960 and is projected to reach 600,000 by 2035. Transportation needs through 2035 have been identified as over $10 billion, but only $2.5 billion in revenues have been identified, leaving a $7.5 billion shortfall. The region must choose between staying on its current course and facing increased congestion, or pursuing additional funding and adapting growth policies to improve transportation and sustainability. Regional cooperation on projects and scenario planning will be important to address the region's critical missing transportation links and complex issues over the coming decades.
The document summarizes a health impact assessment conducted for the proposed SR 50 Bus Rapid Transit project in Orlando, Florida. The assessment analyzed how the project could impact physical health, safety, quality of life, economic development and land use. It identified obesity, diabetes, asthma and traffic crashes as current health issues in the study area. The assessment found that the BRT could help address these issues by promoting transit, walking and bicycling, which in turn could increase physical activity and economic opportunities. It provided recommendations to fund the BRT and adopt complete streets policies to maximize the project's health benefits.
NFTA Metro Route Restructuring
Presented by: James Morrell, Manager, Service Planning, NFTA
Hal Morse, Executive Director, Greater Buffalo-Niagara Region Transportation Council
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) implemented a major route restructuring
initiative on October 31, 2010; a plan which required extensive organizational planning and community participation. The restructuring included adjusting service levels to make the entire system more efficient and increase passenger revenues. Buses now run more frequently over the heaviest used routes, and less frequently over lesser-used portions. This presentation will outline the steps needed to restructure service to be more efficient and cost effective.
Multi-Modal Transportation in North Texas: Increasing Connectivity Between Jo...Rail~Volution
Where are living wage jobs? Where is high-quality, affordable workforce housing? What are the most pressing health issues and where are they concentrated? How well does the region’s transportation system connect the income, housing and health needs of individuals and families? How can multi-modal transportation make the region healthier, stronger and more resilient?
Join local and national experts on Regional Day for a lively discussion about these topics—including the potential of predictive analytics to help transportation systems become more efficient, safer and easier to use. At the end of Regional Day, meet with colleagues from your own communities to share your insights and plan next steps.
Moderator: Regina Montoya, Chair, Mayor’s Task Force on Poverty, Dallas, Texas
Jeffrey Tumlin, Principal, Nelson\Nygaard Consulting Associates, Inc., San Francisco, California
Craig Adelman, Director of Transit Oriented Development, Low Income Investment Fund, San Francisco, California
Melinda Pollack, AICP, Vice President, Enterprise Community Partners, Denver, Colorado
Dan Burden, Director of Inspiration and Innovation, Blue Zones, Minneapolis, Minnesota
John Fregonese, President, Fregonese Associates, Portland, Oregon
Karla Weaver, AICP, Program Manager, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Arlington, Texas
Elizabeth Sobel Blum, Senior Community Development Advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Dallas, Texas
Michael Sorrell, Esq., President, Paul Quinn College, Dallas, Texas
Dr. Ruben Amarashingham, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer, Parkland Center for Clinical Innovation, Dallas, Texas
Walter Bialas, Vice President, Director of Research Dallas, JLL, Dallas, Texas
Larry Tubb, Senior Vice President, System Planning, Cook Children's , The Center for Children's Health, Fort Worth, Texas
The document discusses regional planning efforts in the Delaware Valley region to address changes in travel patterns. It describes how the regional transportation network was originally built around rail lines connecting outlying areas to Philadelphia's center city, but travel is now increasingly suburb-to-suburb. The regional planning agency, DVRPC, is pursuing initiatives like prioritizing investment in centers, revising bus networks to match new travel demands, promoting transit-oriented development, and leveraging other planning efforts to maximize the impact of investments and support more sustainable development patterns.
This document discusses the concept of livability and provides examples of how different transportation agencies have promoted livability through policies, partnerships, and design. Livability involves creating healthy, sustainable communities with strong neighborhoods, vibrant town centers, access to jobs and opportunities, and integration of land use and transportation. Case studies show how agencies have used policies supporting transit-oriented development, partnerships with local groups, and street design changes to improve livability at various scales.
The document summarizes a study conducted by the City of Bellingham, WA on connectivity metrics. It establishes the importance of connectivity as a metric to evaluate transportation networks. The study analyzed connectivity in Bellingham's 16 concurrency service areas, with a focus on areas 9 and 14. The study found that a proposed new arterial called the Birchwood Connector would significantly improve connectivity and access to major destinations like the hospital by providing an alternative to the barrier caused by Interstate 5. The document recommends next steps like revising connectivity metrics, adding it to impact fee programs, and preparing pedestrian and bicycle system plans.
The document discusses the Safe Routes to School State Network Project, which aims to build partnerships and advocate for policies that support safe routes to school. It summarizes the project's work in states from 2007-2009 and 2012 to build networks and partnerships between departments of transportation, education, health, and other groups. The project also helped states implement policies like complete streets plans and secure funding for Safe Routes to School programs and infrastructure.
This document summarizes the activities and priorities of the Regional Planning Commission (RPC). The RPC is responsible for long-range transportation planning as the metropolitan planning organization. It works with state and federal agencies to invest over $70 million annually in transportation projects focused on system preservation, safety, and economic competitiveness. The RPC gathers public input and works with advisory councils to make funding decisions. It also coordinates transit and human services transportation. Recent efforts have included pedestrian and bicycle safety programs and public infrastructure projects to improve livability.
This document summarizes the activities and priorities of the Regional Planning Commission (RPC). The RPC is responsible for long-range transportation planning as the metropolitan planning organization. It develops plans like the long-range Metropolitan Transportation Plan and short-range Transportation Improvement Program. The RPC guides transportation investments, facilitates public participation, and coordinates with various advisory councils and agencies. Key focus areas include improving roads, transit, biking, and walking infrastructure while incorporating priorities around safety, preservation, mobility, and livability.
Community Conversations: 2035 Regional Transportation PlanNashville Area MPO
The document presents a 2035 Regional Transportation Plan for Middle Tennessee. It outlines 3 major policy initiatives: 1) A bold new vision for mass transit including rapid transit corridors and commuter rail. 2) Support for active transportation and walkable communities through a regional bike and pedestrian network. 3) Preservation and enhancement of strategic roadway corridors through road widening and improvements. The plan calls for $3.2 billion in transportation investments to accommodate projected population growth and increasing diversity in the region.
The document discusses plans for rail expansion and transit-oriented development along the Loyola corridor in New Orleans. It describes three phases of rail expansion costing $45 million, $75 million, and an amount to be determined. Mixed-use developments proposed along the corridor include a grocery store, sports entertainment district, office tower renovations, hotel expansion, luxury apartments, and a proposed civil court complex.
Capital Area Transit System (CATS) is the public transit authority for Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It operates 60 buses on fixed routes and 20 paratransit vehicles. CATS also provides curb-to-curb service called CATS-On-Demand for disabled passengers. A recent study recommended that CATS integrate land use and transportation by adopting complete streets policies and developing a rail link between Baton Rouge and New Orleans to drive economic growth. CATS is also studying bus rapid transit lines and working on transit amenities to encourage multimodal transportation options. Public transit is an important economic development tool that yields returns on investment.
The document discusses the roles and responsibilities of state and local governments in transportation. It outlines that the state's role is to provide for interstate and interregional transportation, while local governments are responsible for local roads and infrastructure. Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) provide a forum for regional transportation planning and coordination between local governments. The document also summarizes Louisiana's statewide transportation plan, which includes extensive public outreach and will guide transportation projects and policy through 2043.
The South Central Planning and Development Commission (SCPDC) is a regional planning commission established in 1973 in Louisiana. It serves Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, and Terrebonne Parishes. SCPDC is involved with comprehensive and land use planning for the parishes, including transportation elements. It also works to educate communities on policies like complete streets and supports coordination of human services transportation.
Mary Stringfellow is the Program Delivery Team Leader for FHWA Louisiana Division. This document outlines FHWA's role in transportation planning which includes ensuring state DOTs and MPOs follow the planning process, consulting on plans, and promoting best practices, though FHWA does not directly select projects. It also discusses livability principles, complete streets, land use considerations, and tools used in transportation planning.
The document provides an overview of Code Studio's presentation on model regulations for coastal and riverine development. Code Studio specializes in drafting zoning, subdivision, and development regulations. They have experience working throughout Louisiana, including developing the Louisiana Land Use Toolkit and codes for various parishes and towns. The presentation aims to discuss Code Studio's approach to model regulations, how they support the Coastal Best Practices Manual, and getting feedback from attendees.
The document provides a manual for coastal resilience and adaptation strategies for Louisiana, outlining the economic, environmental and cultural challenges facing the region from factors like sea level rise, summarizing case studies from international locations implementing innovative resilience practices, and proposing a framework for selecting and coordinating multi-scale strategies tailored to local geotypes and community needs.
4. New Primary Transit Corridor (intercity high speed rail and/or regional commuter rail = New or Existing Secondary Transit Corridor ( light rail or street car) = Louisiana Speaks
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7. Who is CONNECT? Policy and Planning Research and Resources Outreach, Education and Communications Special Projects Steering Committee General Membership Organizational Members Institutional Partners
8. Institutional Partners City of New Orleans City of Baton Rouge St. John the Baptist Parish New Orleans Regional Planning Commission Capital Region Planning Commission South Central Planning Commission Jefferson Parish Planning Department New Orleans Regional Transit Authority Capital Area Transit System New Orleans Office of Community Development New Orleans Legislative Delegation Capital Region Legislative Delegation Sen. Mary Landrieu’s Office LSU Law School Dr. Norman Francis, Xavier University Southern High Speed Rail Commission
9. Steering Committee Baton Rouge Advocates for Safe Streets Transport for NOLA Providence Community Housing New Orleans Citizen Participation Project New Orleans Neighborhood Development Collaborative American Planning Association, Louisiana Chapter American Society of Landscape Architects, Louisiana Chapter Baton Rouge Downtown Development District Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations Greater New Orleans Community Data Center Louisiana Realtors Association Baton Rouge Area Chamber AARP Baton Rouge Area Foundation University of New Orleans Louisiana Housing Alliance Louisiana Disaster Recovery Foundation Greater New Orleans Foundation
10. Organizational Members Pennington Biomedical Research Center Forum 35 Puentes New Orleans Sierra Club New Orleans Downtown Development District Urban Land Institute Equity and Inclusion Campaign Louisiana Public Transit Association Gulf Coast Housing Partnership Greater New Orleans Urban League City-Works PolicyLink Greater New Orleans Biosciences Economic Development District Baton Rouge Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Travel Tech Foundation Greater New Orleans Fair Housing Action Center
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13. Quality of Place Percentage of resident’s income spent on housing Source: Center for Neighborhood Technology < 30% income Data not-available > 30% income
14. Quality of Place Percentage of income spent on housing and transportation combined Source: Center for Neighborhood Technology > 45% income < 45% income Data not-available
I would like to introduce our newest initiative called connect
with support from the Ford Foundation, Center for Planning Excellence (CPEX) is commencing a long-term effort in the Baton Rouge and New Orleans region to build a coalition of advocates/stakeholders that support expanded transportation connect to housing and jobs. Our strategy is to develop a Task Force of stakeholders in all relevant sectors and industries to guide and support this work, to contribute to the development of a centralized knowledge base, and to take our message back to their constituencies and leadership that there are dramatic benefits to investing in transit if you do it right. Still, as we consider this to be a long-term, multi-year initiative, we are only in the planning stages of how we will fulfill our goals and objectives on a tactical level. We have gotten valuable input already and the excitement and momentum only grows.
CPEX became an independent non-profit in 2006: and was asked by the governor to participate in the recovery effort CPEX undertook the design of a large-scale long term recovery plan called Louisiana Speaks. Louisiana Speaks: was a 18 months of work facilitated by some of the top planners in the country The process created an exceptionally visionary and original plan: the Louisiana Speaks Regional Plan it included over 27,000 Louisianians and was the largest planning effort in US history This plan outlined the process for redevelopment and recovery across Louisiana
One of the top priorities highlighted in this planning effort was a connector rail line between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Above map: orange primary transit corridor was laid out through the Louisiana Speaks plan, blue supplementary transit lines identified as well. Under this plan, all of South Louisiana--and the Baton Rouge and New Orleans metro centers in particular—will be linked through an alternative transportation connection. CPEX seeks to consistently achieve the priorities within the plan. Federal ARRA stimulus renewed interest in Baton Rouge-New Orleans rail CPEX continues to build and shape this conversation
The map pictured above shows the proposed rail line from La Department of Transportation feasibility study La didn’t pursue stimulus funding opportunity $18 million in operating not identified Transit still important investment, and federal opportunities will continue to be present, the region must be prepared
As you might recall, Louisiana Speaks identified an inter-city rail as a top priority for the region, so there is existing support for this kind of innovation… CPEX began talking with the Ford Foundation this past fall about building knowledge and capacity in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge intercity region concerning the benefits of rail investment. Inseparable from transit investment is the need for directing equitable housing development along transit lines and creating communities for current and future workforces that serve the major job centers of the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas. The national discussions concerning rail investment are also working in our favor CPEX seeks to educate both residents and elected officials in the New Orleans-Baton Rouge region on the benefits of rail, and has begun convening a Task Force of partners to assist in this work…
Three cities have transit systems with a total 2 million annual boardings: Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport We also have 7 existing Amtrak stations across the state that service passenger rail: Hammond, Lafayette, Lake Charles, New Iberia, New Orleans, Schriever, Slidell. New Orleans also just received a $45 million TIGER Grant to extend a streetcar service from Union Passenger Terminal into greater New Orleans. However, the Baton Rouge system is severely underfunded and public transportation in general lags behind; additionally, the state currently has no defined transit policy.
Map shows Baton Rouge and New Orleans as the two leading metro areas in the state: both are in the top-100 metros in the country: New Orleans is ranked at 45 Baton Rouge is ranked at 87 Together, these two metros hold: 45% population 48% of the state’s jobs 53% percent of the its GDP. Build on these existing assets to create quality of place in the region and enhance economic investment
The average American family spends 19% of their household budget on transportation: households with access to transit spend 9% In Baton Rouge-New Orleans region: Map 1: initial mapping shows the cost in relation to the homeowner’s income. Yellow areas—the costs of a home is 30% or less of the homeowner’s income.
Map 2: Combine transportation and housing costs and there is a dramatic increase: Teal blue shows 45% or more of resident’s income going to housing and transportation In a survey of 28 metropolitan regions in the US, the average household spent approximately 48% of its income on housing and transportation (Center for Housing Policy, 2006). This is regional percentage could drop, however, if the commuters coming into the metro centers were presented with alternative transportation options… *green lines show US Census Block Groups
According to the Federal Transit Adminstration’s 2007 records The Baton Rouge Cats System recieves a fraction of the operating and capital funds when compared to the New Orleans RTA.
The commuter shed in both metros is directly contributing to the transportation costs seen on the previous slide. Recent Calculations show that commuters into the metro centers are on the rise: Ascension Parish: 2000 Census - 11,707 work trips into EBR, which is 5.2% of total work trips ending in EBR. 2010 projection is 15,753 work trips ending in EBR or a 34.6% increase over 2000 census. Livingston Parish: 2000 Census– 19,266 daily &quot;work trips&quot; originating in Livingston Parish that ended in East Baton Rouge Parish. This was 8.6% of all work trips ending in EBR. 2010 projection indicates this would increase to 25,265 work trips from Livingston Parish to East Baton Rouge Parish, a 31.1% increase over the 2000 number. The most recent data compiled by the New Orleans Data Center reports that almost 5 years after Hurricane Katrina, Orleans Parish alone has over 37,000 workers commuting into the parish on a daily basis. Each of these commutes is done by car, which is understandable given the lack of transportation option in Louisiana…
The most recent data compiled by the Greater New Orleans Community Data Center reports that almost 5 years after Hurricane Katrina, Orleans Parish alone has over 37,000 workers commuting into the parish on a daily basis. Contrary to recent assumptions that “New Orleans is a housing surplus for low-wage workers” the NODC found that there are more low-wager works coming in than out. Regardless, both sets of commuters would be served by enhanced mobility options, especially considering the statistics for Jefferson Parish…
Hundreds of Jefferson Parish commuters come as far away as St. Tammany and St. John for jobs earning less than $1250 per month. Each of these commutes is done by car, which is understandable given the lack of transportation option in Louisiana…
Congestion patterns clearly stem out of South Louisiana’s metro areas. The highest concentration is in both Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Current development patters don’t address this congestion, but only enhance it.
Traffic congestion across South Louisiana will continue to be a persistent problem—and the widening of roads won’t address it. This is will continue to impact residents’ pocket-books and quality of life, with longer travel times to work and recreation. In New Orleans, low-wage workers are affected daily by the lack of transportation options and alternatives to highway travel and congestion.
Decreases quality of life: Research shows commuting has most negative effect on people’s mood than all other daily activities Time which could be spent on hobbies, leisure, or with family and friends is spent in traffic Increases attractiveness of other states/places with transit systems and transportation choices: Affects ability to attract and retain talent Last US Census reports 64% of college-educated 25-34 year olds said they looked for a job after choosing the city they wanted to live in Aging population and baby-boomers increasingly rely on alternative transportation options, and will relocate to find it Increases direct business costs and taxes needed to offset the indirect-costs of sprawl including transportation, health care and environmental costs
Current development cycle: building neighborhoods beyond urban core requires workers to commute by car into the city increases traffic congestion and pollution within the city both make urban core undesirable place to live attracts residents to the suburbs
Leads to higher quality of life. urban development centered near well connected, integrated transit hubs attracts more riders, which leads to further transit build out more people then able to take advantage of transit, and move to be better served by it no longer putting money into gas and auto repairs frees finances for housing investment move into urban core near transit hubs Isn’t possible unless the system is fully integrated and able to support…
It doesn’t begin and end with a rail… Have to build out system in between Trip chain shows all the usual stops for transportation: if one link is missing, then the chain is worthless But when intact and fully built out and integrated, the chain provides a greater degree of productivity and reliability….
Though highway travel fluctuates, rail stays constant. As ridership grows on rail, investment follows which leads to track upgrades and increased speeds. Meanwhile, highway congestion increases with cars on the road This reliability increases the ease of trips and commutes, which leads to increased frequency of trips—”day trip” culture in business evolves. Meetings that would be held on phone or on web, now done in person. Travel time is turned into productive time, with work being easily done on trains with Wi-Fi access. This is why…
Before we go too far into describing our work, let’s step back and talk about the overall importance of transit… Infrastructure connectivity is essential to developing economically competitive regions on the national and global scale. Of the nation's top 50 metropolitan areas, all but two were planning a New Start project, adding to a existing system or have a new system under construction, using infrastructure investment to attract top industry: New Orleans is included in this grouping. A more integrated transit system not only gives employers access to a wider pool of potential workers, but also attracts a higher quality workforce, with much young, educated, talent attracted to a more urban, connected lifestyle. Transit investment also gives back to the state and local governments, leading to a 4%-16% gain in revenue for many local economies. Regions across the country are realizing the importance of transit investment…
By locating a range of housing choices in close proximity to transit options, quality of life for all residents in enhanced. Giving residents efficient and affordable transportation options, and providing a range of modes and connections to goods, services and amenities. The average American family can reduce their transporation spending by 10% when given access to efficient transit services. This 10% frees up family budgets for higher quality foods, savings for education, and home repairs. Leads to greater economic stability for community.
Urban planner John Fregonese recently compiled data on the six proposed station areas along the potential rail line. Taking data from five-mile radius around each station—represented by the green circles—Fregonese concluded that, combined, the stations would service 44% of the region’s population 57% of the region’s household’s 53% of the region’s employment As the New Orleans and Baton Rouge region holds roughly half the state’s population, a proposed line would service roughly 25% of the state. Increasing equitable opportunities for all.
New Orleans is continuing to build out the connectivity of it’s transit system. The green line shows the portion funded by the Tiger grant, where the red line was proposed but not funded in the last round. The light grey line shows potential lines not included in the grant application, and the darker grey shows the existing streetcar lines. To build on this work and ensure that residents are afforded the housing options and job connectivity these systems can provide, Louisiana must prioritize…
BR-NO economic backbone for the state: New Orleans and Baton Rouge metros must become nationally and internationally competitive. To achieve this, we must attract a and maintain a competitive workforce. By integrating land use, transportation and housing planning, Louisiana creates higher quality of life and quality of place—attracting and maintaining an economically viable workforce. educated young people are seeking more urban, connected lifestyles baby boomers are looking for greater mobility options and walkable communities New policies must be introduced and prioritized by residents and elected officials alike. Transportation can be a transformative economic asset for a region, but only if it is done right.
How can you be part of shaping this new future for our region? You can sign up to become a member of the coalition Sign onto our website today – we have computers available You will receive our monthly newsletter that will contain policy updates, upcoming events and calls to action