ASC's Intersections Newsletter — February 13th, 2025
Nora’s Note
A big welcome to our newest cohort of interns! At Arch Street Communications, we believe an internship should be more than just coffee runs and busywork. That’s why we’re proud to offer ASC BOOST, a structured program that gives interns hands-on experience, mentorship, and real opportunities to grow.
This winter, Suzanna Lloyd, Claudia Smithie, Elan Youngstrom, Helen Yibrah, Aidan Brogan, and Polly Lasch, will support real projects, collaborate with seasoned professionals, and gain insights from experts across our team. Through a series of professional development sessions, they’ll learn about everything from strategic communications to client management, building the skills they need to launch their careers. Through ASC Boost, interns sharpen their expertise and grow their networks, all while contributing to work that matters.
We’re investing in the next generation of communicators, and we can’t wait to see where they’ll go next.
Know someone who should be part of a future cohort? Reach out and let us know!
Transportation
DOT to bring new, colorful art installations to NYC streets. The NYC Department of Transportation announced a new program, the NYC DOT Art Partners initiative. This program will allow community organizations to exhibit temporary public artwork on DOT infrastructure throughout the five boroughs, making the streets more attractive, making art more accessible, and building community by creating welcoming and culturally rich public spaces. A Request for Proposals is now open, and DOT will host a Webinar on March 12th for interested organizations. Read more for DOT’s plans for this program. (Source: AMNY)
Mass Transit: California Transportation Commission to allocate $1 billion to solve transit-mobility challenges
The City: New Nonstop Elevators to Speed Subway Accessibility Coverage
Mass Transit: Duluth MN secured funding for free city bus rides for students and school staff
Climate
Colorado and Connecticut saved residents hundreds of thousands of dollars on their utility bills. A recent report from Energy and Policy Institute found that many prominent utility companies have attempted to charge customers for lobbying and advertising. In 2023, state regulators in Colorado rejected over $775,000 worth of related fees from Excel Energy and Connecticut similarly cut $555,000 from Avangrid. 11 other states have introduced similar proposals following the results of these rate cases. Read more about the outcome of this legislation. (Source: Grist)
City Limits: NYCHA Tenants Can Apply for Up To $5,000 For Climate Projects
Canary Media: North Carolina launches first-ever statewide electrification incentives
Science Daily: New research shows that agricultural research and development led to improved crop varieties
Economic Development
Atlantic Ave in Brooklyn could get thousands of new homes under rezoning. A proposed rezoning could transform the corridor into a more vibrant, mixed-use district. The plan includes up to 4,000 housing units—1,500 affordable units—and new commercial and industrial spaces to boost economic growth. City officials say the project will create much-needed housing and job opportunities for New Yorkers, while critics raise concerns about displacement and infrastructure strain. Read more about NYC rezoning efforts. (Source: Gothamist)
Yale News: State legislators consider bill to expand affordable housing near public transit
My Journal Courier: Jacksonville launches second round of talent-attraction campaign with $9,000 incentives
AL.com: Alabama Development Fund aims at supercharging economic development with no new taxes
Digital
Digital Inclusion: digital navigators across the US teach necessary technical skills, ensuring no one is left behind in a digital world. Digital navigators play an essential role in helping underserved communities gain access to affordable internet, devices, and training. Their efforts are transforming lives across states by providing the necessary resources and support for individuals to fully participate in the digital world, empowering them with skills and opportunities that can improve their economic and social well-being. Read more about the impact of these efforts. (Source: GovTech)
Route Fifty: How Philadelphia incentivizes residents to sharpen their digital skills
Smart Cities Dive: How Arlington County used AI to improve emergency preparedness
GovTech: The 2025 Future of Education Technology Conference garnered attention for new AI methods that could greatly help educators and students with learning disabilities
About Arch Street Communications
At ASC, we help government agencies, corporations and nonprofit organizations across the globe communicate issues that affect people’s lives. We’re the bold, nimble, women-owned small business (WBE) that has supported strategic communications programs to build stronger communities for 30 years.
Ready to find the “simple truth” solutions to build a better future? We want to hear from you! Get in touch to learn how our signature approach can work for you.
Subscribe to Arch Street Communications' Newsletter Intersections
