Robert Moses, that is—Gov. Cuomo is looking to the planning icon for inspiration in a package of infrastructure proposals announced this week.
"Gov. Andrew Cuomo made his annual pre-State of the State pilgrimage to Long Island to announce 'ambitious access proposals' — including a potential car tunnel to Connecticut — that he said will lay the groundwork for this year," reports Jimmy Vielkind. Another proposal would build a third track for the Long Island Railroad between Floral Park and Hicksville.
Gov. Cuomo made the announcement to the Long Island Association, and promised more details and a proposed budget for release next week. As for the Robert Moses angle, Vielkind explains that during his remarks, "Cuomo lamented that government doesn't 'think big' and spoke almost wistfully of Robert Moses…"
Here's Gov. Cuomo's own words channeling Moses: "Somewhere along the way, we lost our daring. We got consumed by the opposition and consumed by the bureaucracy, and we don't think big anymore, and we don't think we're capable of doing big anymore, and we don't think government is a vehicle for doing big any more. And that, my friends, will condemn any dream, if that's how we start…"
FULL STORY: Invoking Robert Moses, Cuomo unveils his Long Island agenda
Alternative Railroad Electrification
Rather than building costly overhead electrification infrastructure to convert a Chicago-area commuter rail line from polluting diesel power to emission-free electricity, the Metra Board of Directors chose a far less expensive and quicker route.
New York City to Reduce Truck Emissions by Investing in Freight Rail Infrastructure
The Big Apple may claim the nation's highest public transit ridership, but it ranks well below average in its use of freight rail. Two small short line railroads are at the center of a $100 million investment to reduce truck reliance.
Done Deal: Manhattan Congestion Pricing
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Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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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.
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