Transportation: Sustainable Strategies
Sustainable local transportation systems require rethinking how communities approach:
Access and Mobility
Access and mobility are not the same thing. Access means that the physical conditions exist for movement: streets are available and bus systems are running, for example. Mobility is the ability of individuals to use the available systems, including whether they can afford to use them or have the physical capacity to use them. Greater numbers of choices mean greater mobility for all.
Demand Management
Demand management includes an array of policies designed to reduce the number of cars on the road, including carpooling, vanpooling, flexible work hours, telecommuting, transit pass programs, and others. Public and private organizations can both institute demand management policies.
Traffic Calming
Traffic calming is physical infrastructure that signals to drivers that they should slow down. Examples include narrowed lanes, “bulb-outs” at intersections, traffic safety islands, and similar additions to streets. Even the presence of trees and parked cars will act as deterrents to speed by creating the perception of narrower lanes.
Transit-oriented Development
Transit-oriented development is the clustering of housing and stores and services in close proximity to a transit station. It generally means multistory development at density levels somewhat higher than in other parts of a city. Residents have the option of commuting by transit and conveniently accomplishing most other errands within walking distance.
Working by using telecommunications and computer technology from a location other than the usual or traditional place of business.
