ASC's Intersections Newsletter — November 10th, 2023
Nora's Note
Artificial intelligence for the public good. Last week, President Biden issued an executive order imposing some of the first concrete regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) development, requiring tech companies to disclose the results of safety tests in technologies that would affect national security, the economy, public health or safety. As many as 56% of US office workers are already using AI tools on the job, yet few companies have addressed how they are applied, and the general population remains divided on the use of AI. Still, AI's potential to accelerate public engagement initiatives can’t be underestimated. With AI, we can almost instantly prepare content and fast track response to public inquiries, leaving more time for community engagement. Our engagement teams are already developing new approaches that will leverage AI to improve outreach and increase inclusivity. We’re excited to see how regulating AI can safeguard against unintended consequences while we work to utilize AI to innovate how governments communicate and engage with communities.
Transportation
US DOT awards over $82M in grants for safer streets to 235 communities. Traffic collisions are among the deadliest concerns in the United States, amounting to nearly 43,000 fatalities in 2022 alone. To mitigate the country’s street safety crisis, over $82 million in grants will be awarded to 235 local and tribal communities by the U.S DOT. The Safe Streets and Roads for All program will support roadway safety for issues pertaining to bike lanes and walkways. These grants should keep pedestrians and cyclists safe from harm’s way. Read more to learn which communities were among those grant awardees. (Source: Smart Cities Dive)
Forbes: Flying Is Becoming More Accessible For Passengers With Disabilities
Mass Transit Mag: NJ: Long dream realized as first ferry to NYC launches from Central Jersey city
AMNY: OMNY vending machines activated at 6 NYC subway stations
Climate
NYC wants to transform Staten Island rail yard into clean energy site. New York City wants to build on its clean energy momentum by repurposing Staten Island's Arlington Yard for offshore wind, large-scale renewables, or transmission uses, according to the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). The site is part of a freight train line and could potentially become part of a plan that prioritizes activating city-owned sites to meet the city’s sustainability demands. NYCEDC is asking for proposals that mesh with the State's climate law and the City's sustainability plan. Proposals for the early-stage Arlington Yard project are due by Dec. 18. Read more on EDC’s plan for collaboration with community stakeholders to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. (Source: SI Live)
Route Fifty: Cities ask the EPA to help them curb methane emissions from landfills
Next Avenue: Retirement Communities Going Solar
Finger Lakes 1: New York unveils $12M heat recover initiative to fight climate change
Economic Development
As Coal Mines Close, Displaced Miners Find Work in Renewable Energy Boom. A partnership between a battery manufacturing startup and the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) prioritizes hiring former miners at upcoming West Virginia battery plant. This collaboration aligns with President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, which allocates funding for clean energy projects in communities affected by the decline of coal mining. With transferable skills and support from organizations like the UMWA, former miners can successfully transition into the clean energy sector. Read more for information on this development and how it balances with the Inflation Reduction Act. (Source: Captain & Main)
Inside Climate News: UAW Settles With Big 3 U.S. Automakers, Hoping to Organize EV Battery Plants
Missouri Independent: Biden launches ‘Investing in Rural America’ push with cabinet officials
Canary Media: How many jobs is the Inflation Reduction Act spurring? A lot
Digital
Vice President Kamala Harris announces AI Safety Institute to protect American consumers. In response to President Joe Biden's executive order on AI development, Vice President Kamala Harris announced new initiatives which include the establishment of the United States AI Safety Institute (US AISI), responsible military AI applications declaration, and draft policy guidance on the government's use of AI. Harris emphasized the need of using AI carefully to safeguard the public and maximize its advantages. Read more to understand the administration’s aims to set global standards for authenticating government-produced content and encourage international cooperation in AI regulation and safety. (Source: Engadget)
Government Technology: Tech Companies Issue Guiding Principles for AI in Ed Tech
Engadget: NYU is developing 3D streaming video tech with the help of its dance department
Tech Crunch: How AI is enhancing, not threatening the future of professionals
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.
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