March 2009
In response to Rep. Earl Blumenauer’s Transportation Finance Reform Panel, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has called to do things differently, citing the recession as a window of opportunity for this approach.
The following is a transcript from AIA CEO/EVP Christine McEntee’s remarks at the Panel:
Funding for transportation projects has been a longstanding priority for the American Institute of Architects, and we echo the Congressman’s call for transportation finance reforms.
In addition to finding new funding options, we really need to look at new approaches to spending the funds that will result in the most positive, lasting impact.
Our current infrastructure system is hurting us–economically, environmentally and from a public health standpoint. We now have a rare window of opportunity to do things differently.
Simply put, we cannot spend money on transportation the same way we’ve spent it for the last 50 years.
This requires an attitudinal change in how these projects are approached from the outset. Rather than merely allocating money for roads, rails and bridges–we have to examine how all modes of transportation interrelate with our communities and the way in which we live.
Transportation planning must be linked to land-use and residential development.
Last year, the AIA commissioned a report with the University of Minnesota that determined investing in transit-oriented development projects has the greatest potential to provide economic, environmental and public health benefits.
These sorts of projects reduce traffic congestion (minimizing air pollution), allow more people to walk and use public transportation, and promote economic development–with the end result, a much healthier, vibrant community.
Our study also showed that communities that undertake a very open, interactive planning process end up with more successful projects.
If you actually give a voice to the people who will ultimately use the system, you will end up with a better informed end product, and thus a better return on investment.
To help address infrastructure challenges, architects have helped develop new approaches to land use for transportation systems. Some cities around the country have has success in reducing congestion and developing more thriving communities by:
A recent AIA poll found that two-thirds of Americans believe the government should invest more in mass transit. So we call on Congress and the President to develop solutions to the funding challenges–and just as importantly ensure that there is a comprehensive, long-term approach to executing transportation projects that will make sure the money is well spent, leaving a positive, lasting legacy that improves our everyday quality of life.
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