Coalition Releases Proposal That Calls for Creating More Efficient, Modernized Transportation Systems

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Today, the Alliance to Save Energy joined the 50x50 Transportation Commission to release a policy platform for modernizing transportation infrastructure to achieve more efficient, sustainable and accessible mobility, including by modernizing several longstanding transportation programs to adapt to the changes within the sector.

The detailed proposal outlines a blueprint for action by Congress supported by a diverse coalition of leading companies and organizations working in transportation, building on the vision and general recommendations announcedby the full “50x50 Commission” last year to reduce transportation energy consumption 50% by 2050. The recommendations could be implemented through surface transportation reauthorization legislation or a broader infrastructure bill.

The report calls for expanding and modernizing traditional transportation programs to ensure they are sufficiently funded and well-designed to support energy efficiency.

Three highlights from the proposal include:

  • Modernize broad programs that support efficiency, such as Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grants, Surface Transportation Block Grants, Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ), and Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA).
  • Boost financing resources such as the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act, Build America Bonds, Municipal Bonds, and Private Activity Bonds.
  • Ensure specific programs for transit, ports, and airports invigorate efficiency through the Airport Improvement Program, federal transit programs; Capital Investment Grants, and Port Modernization programs.

The recommendations would stimulate the use of more efficient vehicles and encourage greater system-wide optimization of energy use and program flexibility to adapt to rapid innovation in the future. The proposal also calls for funding for port and airport efficiency improvements including electrification, and strengthened investments in electric vehicle infrastructure and programs to increase ride sharing and biking and walking.

Supporters of the proposal include leading auto manufacturers, transportation companies, environmental advocates and others.

 

Environment + Energy Leader