Georgia's experience emerging from the recession as revenues increase after years of government belt tightening is common around the country. The question now: How to finance the improvements to the state's neglected transportation infrastructure?
"As the General Assembly gears up for 2015 legislative session, transportation appears to once again be the star of the show," according to a column by Saba Long.
Long addresses the talking points of opponents to increasing the gas tax in the state, namely "the government is too bloated" and "I am paying too much in taxes." In response to the idea of raising the gas tax, Long suggests that "we ought to consider other options as well; particularly considering strong support for pro-autonomous vehicles will lead to a potential boom for Georgia’s already popular electric vehicle market." Lucas adds that Oregon could provide a model for Georgia's future revenue streams: "Georgia, too, could pursue a pilot to deem the merits of VMT, rather than going for a knee-jerk 'no.'"
FULL STORY: Despite anti-tax push-back, Georgia needs more money for transportation

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 Community Science Connects People, Parks, and Biodiversity
Community science engages people of all backgrounds in documenting local biodiversity, strengthening connections to nature, and contributing to global efforts like the City Nature Challenge to build a more inclusive and resilient future.

Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”

Dear Tesla Driver: “It’s not You, It’s Him.”
Amidst a booming bumper sticker industry, one writer offers solace to those asking, “Does this car make me look fascist?”
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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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