- Politicians love to cut ribbons on new infrastructure projects, but maintenance isn't sexy. And as bridge collapses often show, neglecting upkeep can have deadly consequences. (Governing)
- A Swiss company is testing hydrogen-powered trains in Colorado, and California has already bought 10 after finding they have better range than battery-electric models and are cheaper than electrifying lines. Others are more skeptical of the technology, though. (Government Technology)
- California offers up to $9,500 for an electric vehicle, e-bike or transit expenses if people trade in an old gas-guzzling car. But the state seems to make it as hard as possible to take advantage of the program. (Jalopnik)
- The Bay Area's many transit agencies could boost ridership simply by integrating their fares and schedules (San Jose Mercury News). Meanwhile, one agency, Muni, is set to raise fares because of a $12 million budget deficit (SFBay).
- Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was on hand to break ground on Brightline's high-speed rail line between Las Vegas and Southern California. (Fox 5)
- Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell unveiled details about his $3.1 billion "Choose How You Move" transportation plan and a November sales tax referendum. More than half would go to toward doubling bus service. In addition, the plan includes 86 miles of sidewalks, 39 miles of complete streets and almost 600 improved intersections. (Tennessean)
- Louisville Public Media took a deeper dive into the city transit agency's massive service cuts.
- Among 10 bond initiatives on the May 4 ballot in Dallas is Prop A, a $521 million package or street repair and safety projects (CBS News). The Dallas Morning News editorial board urged voters to support it.
- The first section of Seattle's East Link rail line is set to open on Saturday. (Seattle Times)
- The Providence city council is trying to block the mayor from removing a bike lane by passing a law requiring council approval to do so. (Current)
- Hanoi already has an extensive bus system and is now building 14 new rail lines. (Vietcetera)
- Seoul is testing the world's first autonomous buses, with backup drivers. (BBC)
- A Vancouver developer is offering tenants prepaid transit fare cards worth $150. (CTV News)
Today's Headlines
Tuesday’s Headlines Fix It First
How voters incentivize politicians to ignore infrastructure upkeep. Plus, are hydrogen trains the future of rail or a shiny distraction?
By Blake Aued
The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.
Read More:
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog USA
Commentary: Illinois’s Transit Funding Flop Is a Cautionary Tale
Not funding transit agencies' basic operating needs is a political loser in any state.
Car Harms Series: NYC’s ‘Gridlock Sam’ Says We Have Lost Our Lives to the Automobile
Take it from the former head of New York's Department of Traffic: If we restore valuable public space to the people, the result will be a healthier, happier, and more humane city.
Tuesday’s Headlines Come Here, Rude Boy
Pro tip from a University of Liverpool researcher: If you contact your local government to support bike lanes, be nice!
June 3, 2025
Free Public Transportation: a Postcard from Montpellier
The french city Montpellier has offered free transit fares since December 2023. Could it be an inspiration for the United States?
June 3, 2025
One Structural Change Could Shift Everything About How Transportation Works in America
The so-called "highway trust fund" is disproportionately funded by gas taxes generated on non-highway roads — and those local priorities never get their money back. Is it time for a change?
June 2, 2025
