By Eric Murphy
A new network of advocates across seven states is highlighting how transportation policies that are good for the environment offer many other benefits too. The Clean RIDES Network, launched last week, is using recent policy successes in places like Colorado as models that other states can take inspiration from. SSTI is among those advising the group, hoping to steer advocacy toward innovative, achievable policies drawing on years of experience.
Among the network’s aims is shifting funding away from expensive highway projects toward those that give people more transportation options, a strategy SSTI recently highlighted in Innovative DOT. That saves money for state agencies, reduces costs for travelers, and boosts the economy. A report from Clean RIDES says that the average household would save $1,678 per year if its policies were implemented — gas and maintenance savings alone would put more than $1,000 back in their pockets to spend in the local economy.
The AP also points out that a Colorado law the network hopes will be adopted elsewhere led the state to shift money away from two expensive highway expansions, with the resulting savings enough to invest in expanding its booming intercity bus network. Research from the APTA has found that investment in public transit has a 5-to-1 economic return.
SSTI has long been advocating for a more multimodal transportation system, policies that prioritize the most efficient investments, and data-driven performance measurement. A shift in federal priorities has made that more difficult to do at a national level, but states can fill some of the gaps. As SSTI’s managing director recently wrote in a Next City op-ed:
The current federal administration has signaled a hard shift from policies that can make our transportation systems more sustainable and equitable, leaving others to shoulder the responsibility. While every city and town has a role to play, states control around two-thirds of transportation spending, including the bulk of federal funds.
We believe states have a unique opportunity to lead in today’s evolving transportation landscape. By learning from peers and building on proven strategies, agencies can make necessary progress without reinventing the wheel.
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