ASC's Intersections Newsletter — February 3, 2023
Nora's Note
Black History Month started as Negro History Week in 1926. Scholar Carter Woodson founded the week in 1926 to focus on the teachings of Black history in America’s public schools, a prescient act given the College Board’s decision to reduce content in AP African American studies this week, about 100 years later. At its most basic, effectiveness in public engagement requires embracing, not erasing, differences. This year’s Black History Month theme, “Resistance,” underscores the need to understand and correct disparities exacerbated by the effects of climate change across communities. The histories of racial justice and environmental action are inextricably linked, and it will take engagement that crosses long-standing divides to keep our public institutions working towards an equitable energy future.
Transportation
Grand Central Madison brings LIRR service to the East Side. Last week, the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) officially began service at Grand Central Terminal after construction completed in the beginning of the year. The new LIRR stop should reduce some commutes by 40 minutes and reduce traffic at Penn Station, the only other Manhattan stop on the LIRR. Service currently runs between Grand Central Terminal and Jamaica Station only, with full service expected to begin within the month. Read more about the grand opening of LIRR service to Grand Central Terminal. (Source: Gothamist)
Transport Topics: Federal Grant to Make Golden Gate Bridge Safer From Earthquakes
Gothamist: MTA to allow open strollers on nearly 20% of NYC buses
Grist: Biden administration unveils roadmap for a greener, more equitable transportation sector
SmartCitiesDive: 2023 could see more tiny vehicles, significant transportation investments, experts say
Energy/Environment
Ann Arbor focuses decarbonization efforts on frontline communities. The city of Ann Arbor, Michigan, is working to reach carbon neutrality within the next decade through collaborative projects with the communities most at risk from the effects of climate change. Starting with the cold and flood-prone neighborhood of Bryant, the city’s sustainability department has partnered with local non-profits to weatherize and decarbonize homes in the area, reducing energy bills and creating long-term, community-owned solutions. Read more on the city’s plans to prioritize those most acutely affected by climate change. (Source: Grist)
NPR: Biden’s offshore wind plan could create thousands of jobs, but challenges remain
Utility Dive: US must invest $22.4B in domestic supply chain to reach 30 GW of offshore wind goal: report
The Guardian: US renewable energy farms outstrip 99% of coal plants economically – study
AP: EPA considers tougher regulation of livestock farm pollution
Economic Development
Biden administration unveils renter protections. The cost of rent has stayed high across the US, after hitting record highs throughout 2022. Following in the steps of the Housing Supply Action Plan announced last year, the Biden Administration recently announced new regulations aimed at protecting renters from unfair rental practices or exclusion. The new plan will involve six federal agencies and encourage private and public action on the state level. Read more about the interagency effort protect renters' rights. (Source: CNN)
New York YIMBY: New York State Awards $10M Downtown Revitalization Investment Grant To East Harlem, Manhattan
ABC27: Shapiro creates new Pennsylvania economic development office
New York Times: White House Aims to Reflect the Environment in Economic Data
CT Insider: Proposal would encourage housing density near CT transit stations
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