A recent NPR story asked if there was really a “war on cars.” This idea seems to appear in newspaper comments, on radio talk shows, and as opinion pieces. But this question is not new, nor are complaints about rude bicyclists or clueless pedestrians. We have been arguing about access and safety in the public right of way for over a century.
historical perspective
Gas consumption down to 2000 levels
Better vehicle fuel-efficiency and moderating demand for highway travel are combining to push gasoline consumption down to its lowest levels since 2000. Despite our growing population, Americans are using less gas.The downward trend both exacerbates the erosion of fuel taxes as a source of transportation funding, but at the same time suggests that agencies may be able to economize by rethinking capacity projects.
Golden, CO, stands firm against Denver’s Beltway expansion
For decades, through the court system and political initiatives, the City has been able to block the expansion of the beltway, which is nearly a complete loop around Metro Denver. The question remains as to whether or not Golden should be applauded for their efforts or seen as obstructionists to regional progress.
Pedestrians losing last refuge in the public right of way to bicycles
The entire public street – building face to building face – used to be the realm of pedestrians. As transportation modes changed, the pedestrian got pushed farther and farther towards the edges, first by streetcars, …
Golden ring or vicious circle?
The Washington Beltway had a short life before filling up, as noted in the Washington Post: “But within two months, the Beltway had nearly exceeded the daily number of vehicles that planners had projected for …
And in the same year that Eisenhower introduced the National Highway System
Time Magazine in 1955 gushed about toll roads: “EVERYBODY agrees that the U.S. needs more and better roads, but almost nobody agrees on how to pay for them. While the argument rages, Texas has gone …
History of the parking meter
NJ.com offers a brief history of the parking meter, as Somerville, New Jersey phases out its penny parking meters.