In 2012 the CTLCV Education Fund released a comprehensive transportation guide for Connecticut. This guide is a call to action that promoted a vision for an efficient 21st Century transportation system. It served as a roadmap for the public, legislators and policy makers to build a better statewide transportation system to help Connecticut economically, while respecting natural resources and sense of place.
Investing in transportation is an investment in Connecticut's future. It is central to our health, economy, natural resources, and building a sustainable future.
Transportation is a top priority for the state and the region. In 2012, he Coalition of Northeastern Governors (CONEG) named Governor. Dannel P. Malloy its lead governor for transportation. Malloy served as the chief coordinator to advocate and advance transportation policy initiatives for CONEG.
CTLCVEF produced this guide to spell out the benefits and options available for creating a better transportation system for the environment, the economy, and public health. It gives context to investment issues such as Amtrak’s new $150 billion high speed rail proposal. Lessons from other states are also highlighted.
Transportation impacts everyone and costs us all. Investing in a transportation system that provides connectivity and travel choices to serve all users results in positive economic benefits and creates jobs.
In Connecticut, transportation produces 38% of greenhouse gas emissions with single passenger cars producing the largest share. Reducing congestion on our roads and miles traveled by car will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve our air quality. Stormwater that runs off the roads into nearby waterways carries pollutants into our water. Better transportation planning and use of innovative techniques can improve water quality.
CTLCV’s transportation guide not only identified issues, but also proposed action. The guide showed how to take action as a constituent, with ten policy recommendations that citizens could take to lawmakers. Concrete policy suggestions were intended to help legislators implement a more environmentally friendly, affordable, and health-conscious transportation system. Policy recommendations included developing a multi-modal transportation system, implementing “green” infrastructure, supporting transit-oriented development, developing new sources of funding, and making walking and biking safer.
A multimodal transportation system will also lead to better land use. Focusing development near transit stations and making our streets safer so people can easily access jobs, retail and housing will reduce sprawl and allow us to grow while preserving our natural resources.
