Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
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?

12:17 AM EDT on April 23, 2024

Photo: Patorjk|

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

  • 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)

Read More:

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Today's Headlines

Are Friday’s Headlines the New Normal?

Transit ridership hasn't come all the way back from the pandemic, and they're going to need more federal help, along with other changes, says Governing magazine.

May 3, 2024
Safety

Friday Video: How to Make Places Safe For Non-Drivers After Dark

A top Paris pedestrian planner, a leading GIS professional, and Streetsblog's own Kea Wilson weigh in on the roots of America's nighttime road safety crisis, and the strategies that can help end it.

May 3, 2024
Promoted ArchivesCongestion Pricing

OPINION: Congestion Pricing Will Help My Family Get Around As We Navigate Cancer Treatment

My partner was recently diagnosed with cancer. Congestion pricing will make getting her to treatment faster and easier.

May 3, 2024
Talking Headways

Talking Headways Podcast: Money is a Lot of Different Things

It's Part II of our discussion with Jim Kumon!

May 2, 2024
Today's Headlines

If Thursday’s Headlines Build It, They Will Come

Why can the U.S. quickly rebuild a bridge for cars, but not do the same for transit? It comes down to political will and a reliance on consultants.

May 2, 2024
See all posts