ASC's Intersections Newsletter — Week of June 4, 2021
Nora's Note
Building a transparent future. Moving toward recovery, new projects seem to be springing up like daisies, and while it's exciting to see new activity, it's important that we not overlook communication in the rush to deliver new projects. The past year has highlighted the need to rebuild trust in public institutions and to be transparent public communicators. The best communication during the pandemic delivered consistent messaging that was truthful, even if what would come next was uncertain or the message was unpopular. Applying these lessons in transparency will be vital in advancing communication that activates meaningful participation.
21 Digital Trends for 2021
Each week, ASC's digital strategists explore the pros, cons and how-tos of using an emerging trend to reach wider, more representative audiences right where they are. This week, learn how on the go livestreaming can help you bring in-person connections to your virtual communication.
Transportation
What Happens When Cash Fares are Eliminated? As many public transit systems move toward contactless payment methods, equity remains a key concern. More transit agencies are looking to touch-free systems for cleaner, more convenient fare collection in the post-pandemic recovery. However, a recent study shows that the launch of a cashless fare system excluded nearly 9% of riders, including those without smartphones or bank accounts. Read on for ideas for an equitable transition to emerging fare collection systems.
ABC 7: Construction complete on LIRR expansion into Grand Central
Transportation Today: USDOT seeks feedback on data, assessment tools
NBC 4 NY: $11 Billion New York-New Jersey Rail Tunnel Gets Key Federal Approval
NJ Spotlight News: NJ Transit lays out road map to green future
Transport Topics: FHWA Issues $5.6 Million to States for Innovation Projects
Reuters: Can Syracuse heal racial wounds by busting up its freeway?
CNN: Truckers are getting big pay hikes, but there's still a shortage of drivers
Hartford Courant: Hartford’s LINK Scooters top over 17,000 rides within first month
Energy/Environment
Where Wind and Solar Power Need to Grow for America to Meet Its Goals. To meet White House goals for net-zero emissions by 2050, the United States will need to secure more of its energy from renewable sources. According to a new report, achieving the goal will require communities to address issues like permitting and conservation. Emerging technologies, among other factors, can support the nation in expanding renewable energy. Read on for more on what's required for the US to meet its emissions goals.
The Hill: Climate resilience is the new sustainability
The Verge: The Places Paving the Way to 100 Percent Renewable Energy
Scientific American: Struggling Seabirds Are Red Flag for Ocean Health
National Geographic: Tearing out these dams will open rivers up for recreation—and save lives
Axios: Southwest's new climate peril
Associated Press: EPA restoring state and tribal power to protect waterways
Roll Call: Clean electricity standard, key to climate fight, awaits definition
Energy News Network: Cranberry farmers look to sweeten income by pairing crop with solar panels
Economic Development
Young women need better, higher-paying jobs in post-pandemic recovery. The pandemic-era economic downturn has disproportionately impacted women, according to a recent report. Researchers found that the pandemic amplified the unequal economic conditions that first emerged during the recovery from the 2008 financial crisis, with young women being more likely to earn lower wages and work part-time. Between 2009 and 2019, young women also were more likely to work in the industries most impacted by COVID-19. Read on for the report’s recommendations for a post-pandemic economic recovery that supports young women.
Smart Cities Dive: Stimulus funds poised to magnify impact of Economic Development Administration's new equity focus
Fast Company: 2021 is going to be the summer of cities
Next City: This Nonprofit Eliminated a Simple Barrier Keeping New Orleans Teens From Their Summer Internships
Bloomberg CityLab: How to Fix America
Route Fifty: SBA’s Navigator Program Offering Grants up to $5M for Governments
Statescoop: Collaboration is key for state broadband officials
Niagara Frontier Publications: NYPA's economic development awards creating more than 100 jobs in Western New York
Cities Today: Four major cities launch contest for cultural sector recovery
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