All posts from the month of August 2008
California bill attacks sprawl
August 28, 2008By Andrew Bielak
With California on the verge of approving landmark legislation to curb greenhouse gas emissions and sprawl with more compact development, the Los Angeles Times urges Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to pick up his pen and make it official.
Defying Convention, Denver Pedicabs Seek a Leg Up
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
As the Democrats coalesce in Denver, some local pedicab owners are hoping to show them — and the rest of the country — that getting a ride around downtown from a cyclist could be the wave of the future. (Wall Street Journal — Stephanie Simon)
Running Out of Money, Cities Are Debating the Privatization of Public Infrastructure
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
With many cities and states facing huge deficits and a need for vast infrastructure upgrades, private investors are looking to finance a “tidal wave” of projects across the country. (New York Times — Jenny Anderson)
Going the Distance to ‘Save Gas’
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
It may not be everyone’s idea of a refreshing early-morning jog, but for some running fanatics, commuting 20 miles or more to work on foot is a cheap and fun way to get to the office. (Wall Street Journal — Stu Woo)
University of Michigan team to study greener land use
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
A group of scientists in Ann Arbor are studying how exurban communities could become more environmentally efficient through better land use decisions. (Ann Arbor News — Tracy Davis)
A Biblical Seven Years
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
Returning from the Beijing Olympics, columnist Thomas Friedman reflects on China’s commitment to building sleek, efficient, and exciting infrastructure. (New York Times)
Acela trains may expand to meet demand
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
With demand for Amtrak’s high-speed train between New York and Boston rising fast, the company may be looking to add new cars and raise fairs. (Bloomberg News)
Back-to-school students to feel the pinch of higher gas prices
August 27, 2008By Andrew Bielak
The high cost of fuel is rocking school district budgets in Metro Detroit, as many face six-figure increases in energy costs. (Detroit Free Press — Peggy Walsh-Sarnecki)
Leasing of Landmark Turnpike Puts State at Policy Crossroads
August 26, 2008By Andrew Bielak
Pennsylvania’s government is considering leasing the state’s main turnpike to a group of investors for $12.8 billion in a deal that could set a new bar for public-private partnerships. (Wall Street Journal — Craig Karmin)
The case for high speed rail in America
August 26, 2008By Andrew Bielak
Business traveler and former airline executive David Grossman writes that a properly implemented high-speed rail network could make short flights unnecessary, save fuel while cutting back on emissions, and help clear up our congested skies and highways. (USA Today)



