The appointment of a new director of a regional transportation authority, with no prior experience in urban planning or transportation, leaves some wary.
Several are wary of the appointment of Steve Stancil as the new executive director of the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority. Unlike his predecessor, who lost her job with the changing of administrations, Stancil does not have prior experience in urban planning or transportation. Although many say that his strength lies in the political skills he brings to the table, his opponents say that "he tends to play it safe politically and may not have the nerve to lead the region out of problems as polarizing as traffic congestion and air quality." As the new chief, Stancil will face many challenges: "Traffic congestion is worse than ever; air quality standards that the region so far has been unable to meet are about to get stricter; the money available for transportation improvements is far less than what's needed; and the region's primary transit provider, MARTA, is facing a financial crisis."
Thanks to Connie Chung
FULL STORY: The gridlock gladiator
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.
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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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