Denise Hamet Discusses Trends in Creative Transportation Strategies

Published on: 31 August 2019 Last Updated on: 10 September 2024
Denise Hamet

Transportation drives economic development. As roadways become more congested, the capacity to move people and goods efficiently will be key for residents selecting where to live, and for businesses choosing where to expand. Technological advances in recent years have provided new opportunities for strategic approaches to congestion and have improved environmental outcomes related to mass transportation. Momentum is building, resulting in large-scale, long-term transportation plans. Public/private partnership strategies are forming to speed development and save money. Citizens are voting to help fund these far-reaching programs since efficient transportation promotes employment opportunities for people who otherwise would be excluded from many job options. In this article, Denise Hamet discusses some of the recent trends in transportation strategies around the United States.

Autonomous (“Driverless”) Public Transportation:

Self-driving vehicles have quickly moved from the realm of science fiction into the real world of transportation. Public transportation agencies have been closely watching the advances in this market from companies like Google and Intel. As a result, technologies are currently being developed for vehicles on preset routes that operate autonomously. Las Vegas is leading the testing of driverless buses in partnership with Keolis, a private company that has developed autonomous bus technology for use on public roads. The Keolis autonomous shuttle is equipped with LiDAR technology, GPS, cameras, and safety belts and is designed to communicate with traffic signals, operate on open roads, and navigate around pedestrians and moving traffic. Following this model, several companies are developing driverless shuttles for use across the country. Some cities, such as Phoenix, are currently combining traditional bus service with autonomous shuttles.

Public transit authorities are dealing with the same issues surrounding the use of autonomous vehicles on public roadways throughout the nation. This rapidly developing technology is pressing our legal and regulatory system to move forward on liability, insurance, and safety issues that are new to our systems.

Mobility as a Service (MaaS):

Developments in networking and artificial intelligence are driving a new concept for public transit–Mobility as a Service, or MaaS. The idea behind MaaS is that bundling all available transportation options for consumers in urban and metropolitan areas will provide more opportunities for users and maximize cost efficiency.

Ideally, customers will be able to make travel choices based on current traffic conditions, and electronic payments will be seamless and efficient. Transit services in lower demand can be downscaled, while resources can be quickly moved to the areas of greatest consumer needs. This system will theoretically reduce costs and environmental impacts while relieving pressure on infrastructures.

Electric and Hybrid Public Transportation:

Increased urban development around the world and increased awareness of carbon emissions are placing a greater focus on electric and hybrid transportation options. The City of Los Angeles, for example, is changing over its entire fleet of buses to electric vehicles by 2030.

Many cities and metro areas find that the initial cost of electric buses and trolleys is the most prohibitive aspect of their development. Electric buses can cost as much as twice that of traditional diesel buses; however, hybrid buses are much more in line with traditional costs. Advances in production technology will likely result in reduced acquisition costs, which, in conjunction with reduced fuel costs and reduced emissions, will make electric and hybrid options more attractive in the near future.

Putting it All Together:

Many cities are implementing long-term, multi-modal strategies. Denver, for example, is moving forward with multiple phases of the multi-billion-dollar FasTracks Program. At completion, the program will add more than 120 miles of commuter rail tracks, 18 miles of bus rapid transit (BRT), and 21,000 parking spaces at rail and bus stations. A crucial part of the program was the Denver Transit Partners (DTP) public/private partnership formed to implement the 36-mile Eagle P3 project.

DTP is a private consortium led by Fluor Corp. The team entered into a 34-year agreement with RTD for the 5-year design and build of the Eagle P3 project, followed by 29 years to operate and maintain the system.

Meanwhile, Sacramento continues to roll out its Green City Initiative, a partnership with Electrify America. The company is investing $44 million in Sacramento to catalyze a shift to zero-emission technologies by installing charging infrastructure, conducting outreach and education, and implementing programs designed to increase access to and use of Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEVs). New programs and services–including two new car-sharing services, new ZEV routes, and state-of-the-art electric vehicle charging systems–are anticipated to launch throughout 2019.

The Future – the Need for Federal Funding:

With so much potential for improved transportation, funding is essential. Attention is currently focused on Congress’s approach to a new transportation bill, as the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST) expires in 2020. Infrastructure improvements are one of the unusual areas where bipartisan cooperation and compromise are possible in the course of legislating for the country’s needs.

One area of concern is funding for the federal Highway Trust Fund, which is based on federal fuel taxes on gasoline and diesel. These tax rates have not been modified in over 25 years, and unless funding is modified, economists project insolvency for the fund within two years. Many options are being considered to alter financing, and many of the developing local mass transit trends are going to be potentially funded by private investment. With the impending expiration of the FAST Act, all manner of funding options will inevitably be on the table for discussion.

The bottom line is:

Collaboration, creativity, and certainty of funding will all be essential to drive us forward.

Read Also:

 

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Used Car

10 Reasons to Purchase a Used Car

Looking to buy an inexpensive car? Then think about buying a used car rather than an expensive new car. Buying pre-owned vehicles can provide the same comfort as a new car, provide quality transportation for years, and can significantly save you money. Here’s a list of reasons why you should buy a used vehicle. 1. Cheaper price tag: The price of a used car is a lot less intimidating than the price of a new car. New vehicles are great to have, but cars still lose most of their value early in their lifespan. The inevitable law of depreciation remains a significant reason to purchased used cars instead. 2. Several options: If you’re buying a new car, there are only a few brands and models available for you to choose from. But, when you purchase a used vehicle, you can look around and pick a specific car that best suits your needs. 3. Cheaper insurance rates: New car insurance can be cheaper. However, the insurance rates for a used car are less expensive than they would be for new cars. It means you will be saving money on the vehicle itself and on your insurance, both at the same time. 4. Cheaper registration fees: The same as with car insurance, several states charge a cheaper fee to register a vehicle if it has a lower transaction price. While some states increase its registration fees to generate more income, purchasing a used car is a good way to avoid rising registration fees. 5. Used cars now are much more reliable than in the last century: With the help of today's technology, vehicles are designed and manufactured to last longer, which makes modern used vehicles more reliable and dependable. 6. Negotiate the price: You can purchase the vehicle for lower than its asking price if you successfully haggle about its price with the seller. 7. Cut down on maintenance costs: Maintenance costs tend to be cheaper when you purchase a used car. You can also save money on internal configurations, premium oil, and more. 8. Less depreciation: Brand new cars are bound to lose around half of their value in the first five years after purchase. However, used cars do not depreciate so fast, making your purchase a good investment. 9. Cheaper customization costs: Since you’re purchasing a used car, you may install features on your own at a more affordable price than on a new car. 10. Certified pre-owned vehicles: Certified pre-owned vehicles assure buyers that they’ll be getting a car that drives like new. It also ensures buyers that they’re buying quality and thoroughly inspected cars at a bargain price. Certified pre-owned vehicles may sometimes have an extended warranty, unique financing, and other benefits. Buying used cars in Utah, Florida or any state is exciting, especially with several great options to choose from on the market today. These are some of the reasons why buying a used vehicle is worth it. Read Also: The Top 3 Fastest Ways To Sell Your Car Privately 7 Reasons Why Teenagers Pay Extra For Car Insurance

READ MOREDetails
Porsche Owners

Knowing Your Vehicle: 5 Maintenance Tips for Porsche Owners

There are certain luxury car marques that define an image as soon as the name is mentioned and Porsche is right up there as an iconic brand.If you are a Porsche Owners then you should know these beneficial tips for your car. If you took the decision to join the Porsche club a while ago you will want to ensure that you get to know how to get the best out of your car from a performance and retentive value perspective. Browsing a site such as webuyexotics.com will confirm the value and prestige that Porsche commands and you might even see a new model that might tempt you. In the meantime, you will obviously want to keep your car in the best possible shape and a great way to do that is to learn some useful maintenance tips. Here are some maintenance tips that all Porsche owners should know. Maintenance Tips for all Porsche Owners: Look after your brakes: You don’t need to be told how important it is to be proactive with the maintenance and repair of the braking system on any car but there are also some features and issues that are particularly relevant to Porsche models. If you don’t use your Porsche or you are not Porsche owners on a regular basis there is a potential risk that the brake discs can suffer from corrosion. If you are not using your car that frequently and it has been standing around for a while, even if that is in a garage, you should arrange to take a close look at your brakes to see how they are holding up. The issue to be mindful of is that on Porsche’s it can often be the back of the disc that is most badly affected, which you can’t see without closer inspection of the vehicle. You will probably notice if there is any pitting or corrosion as there will be a noticeable reduction in the efficiency of your brakes and you might feel vibration when you try to slow down. Check and replenish fluid: Another aspect of your braking system that is easy to overlook but could create a dangerous situation is the quality of your brake fluid. It is a good idea to check the state of the fluid at least once a year or less. You may not be aware that brake fluid diminishes with age and it also has the capacity to soak up moisture and suffer corrosion. Combined, those issues could cause your braking performance to suffer and that could be dangerous if your brakes can’t respond as you want. A simple but effective maintenance tip is to check the brake fluid and consider changing it when you perform an annual service. Don’t ignore steamy windows: There are a couple of specific Porsche models that are known for suffering from water ingress issues, namely the 996 Cabriolet and Boxster. A good clue to look for would be if your windows are steaming up. It is wise to take notice of this warning sign as the electrical contact unit under the floor of the lefthand front seat could become damaged by the moisture. The way to help avoid this scenario is to regularly check the drains located just beneath the soft top and ensure they are kept clear. If the problem persists, you should also check the membrane behind the door to see if it is working efficiently. Evidence of damp at the bottom of the door panels would suggest that it is not, which could be one reason why you are getting steamy windows. Check your transmission fluid: If you want to keep your car running smoothly and preserve the life of the engine a good maintenance tip would be to keep a close eye on the state of your transmission fluid. It is easy to see how healthy your transmission fluid is by the color. If it is pink or red that means it is clean, but if the fluid is black it is dirty and definitely needs changing as soon as possible. As a general guide, change your transmission fluid somewhere around 75,000 miles and don’t leave it any longer than 100,000 miles. A good way to check the fluid would be to let your Porsche warm up before removing the dipstick and checking the levels and color. Some models need an oil change quicker than others: It is a good idea to find out the average lifespan of the engine oil relevant to the Porsche model you own and the intervals can vary. A 993, for example, should get an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles if you are going to enjoy a good performance and keep your Porsche on the road for as long as possible. Read Also: Best Carpet Maintenance Practices Prepping Your Vehicle For Winter Weather Driving Buying a Used Car? Few Negotiating tips, you can use Honda Cars in Watertown NY: 8 Things to Check Before Buying a Second-Hand Car

READ MOREDetails
Fuel Storage Tanks

Fuel Storage Tanks: Ensuring Safe And Reliable Fuel Management

Fuel storage tanks play a critical role in ensuring the safe and reliable management of fuel. These tanks are essential for storing large quantities of fuel, providing a steady supply for various industries and applications. However, without proper maintenance and adherence to best practices, fuel storage tanks can pose significant risks such as accidents and environmental hazards. This article aims to explore the importance of regular maintenance, factors to consider when choosing a tank, best practices for fuel management, and strategies to ensure longevity and efficiency in your fuel storage system. Importance Of Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and reliable management of fuel storage tanks. Implementing proactive and cost-effective maintenance practices can bring several benefits to the overall operation. First, regular maintenance helps identify potential issues before they escalate into more significant problems, preventing costly repairs or replacements in the long run. It also ensures that tanks are functioning optimally, reducing the risk of leaks or spills that could compromise safety. Neglecting maintenance, on the other hand, can have severe consequences. Over time, corrosion and deterioration may occur, leading to structural weaknesses and potential failures. This not only poses a threat to the environment but also increases safety risks for personnel working with these tanks. In conclusion, regular maintenance is essential for maintaining the integrity and reliability of fuel storage tanks while minimizing costs and risks associated with neglecting upkeep. Factors To Consider When Choosing A Tank One important consideration when selecting a tank for fuel storage is the capacity required to meet the demand of the intended application. The choice of tank size should be based on careful analysis of the fuel consumption rate and anticipated future needs. Underestimating the required capacity can lead to frequent refilling, which could disrupt operations and increase costs. On the other hand, selecting a tank that is too large may result in excessive initial investment and wasted space. Cost considerations are crucial in determining the optimal tank size. Another factor to consider when choosing a fuel storage tank is its environmental impact. It is essential to select tanks made from materials that are resistant to corrosion and leakage, as these can cause harm to both human health and natural ecosystems. Additionally, tanks should have proper ventilation systems in place to prevent vapour accumulation and potential explosions. An environmentally friendly option would be tanks designed with secondary containment systems, which provide an additional layer of protection against leaks or spills. Considering these factors will ensure safe and reliable fuel management while minimizing negative environmental consequences. Read More: 5 Ways To Improve The Fuel Efficiency Of Your Truck Best Practices For Fuel Management An essential aspect of effective fuel management involves implementing proper maintenance and inspection protocols to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues. Fuel consumption tracking is a crucial practice that allows for accurate monitoring of fuel usage and the identification of any abnormalities or inefficiencies. This data can be used to optimize fuel efficiency, reduce costs, and identify potential leaks or theft. Additionally, ensuring fuel quality control is imperative to maintain the integrity of the stored fuel. Regular testing should be conducted to check for water contamination, microbial growth, sedimentation, and other impurities that could affect the fuel's performance. Implementing filtration systems and regular tank cleaning can help mitigate these risks. By adhering to these best practices for fuel management, organizations can improve operational efficiency while promoting safety and reliability in their storage tanks. Preventing Accidents And Environmental Hazards To mitigate the risk of accidents and environmental hazards, it is important to implement robust safety protocols and practices. When it comes to preventing spills, one key measure is ensuring that storage tanks are regularly inspected for any signs of corrosion or damage. Additionally, strict guidelines should be in place for the handling and transferring of fuel, including the use of appropriate equipment such as spill containment systems and drip pans. Emergency response procedures must also be established to effectively address any spills or leaks that may occur. This includes training staff members on proper response techniques, having readily accessible spill response kits on site, and establishing communication protocols with local emergency services. By implementing these measures, fuel storage facilities can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and minimize potential environmental impacts. Ensuring The Longevity And Efficiency Of Your Fuel Storage System Maximizing the lifespan and effectiveness of a fuel storage system requires implementing comprehensive maintenance procedures and regularly monitoring for any signs of deterioration or inefficiency. Proper fuel storage system maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues that could compromise safety, reliability, and efficiency. This includes regular inspection of tanks, pipelines, valves, and other components for corrosion, leaks, or damage. Additionally, it is crucial to conduct routine cleaning to remove sediment buildup or contaminants that may affect fuel quality. Implementing preventive measures such as cathodic protection systems can help mitigate corrosion risks. Monitoring fuel levels and conducting periodic testing of stored fuel quality is also vital to ensure efficient operation. By adhering to these maintenance practices, operators can safeguard their fuel storage systems against premature degradation and maintain their efficiency over time. Additionals: Truck Accident Scenarios: Who Is Liable? A Set Of The Best Exercises For Truck Drivers The Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents The Main Reasons Why Cabover Trucks Are Less Common Than Long Hood Rigs  

READ MOREDetails