Equity in Transportation: A Path Forward
Transportation equity has long been a challenging issue in the United States, and it's high time we address it head-on. In a recent development, a federal committee called the Advisory Committee on Transportation Equity (ACTE) is taking steps to reckon with the inequities rooted in transportation policies of the past and present. This initiative is vital for creating a truly accessible transportation system for all Americans, and it's essential for government mobility, non-profits, and advocacy groups to stay informed about these efforts.
A Call to Reckon with the Past
During the inaugural meeting of the ACTE, Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the need to acknowledge the department's past mistakes, even if today's officials weren't personally responsible for them. He stressed that everyone in a position of responsibility is accountable for addressing transportation inequities. This committee comprises 24 members from various sectors, offering independent advice and recommendations on civil rights and transportation equity issues.
Unraveling a Legacy of Inequity
The impact of past transportation policies still lingers today, disproportionately affecting low-income and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. Highways that sliced through neighborhoods decades ago continue to exact physical and financial tolls, displacing communities and eroding intergenerational wealth. To rectify these historical injustices, leaders must reimagine solutions, considering reparations and justice from a land use and transportation planning perspective.
Present-Day Inequities
Transportation inequities persist, impacting communities across the nation. According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), bus riders face an average 47-minute commute, compared to 26 minutes for drivers. Low-income households spend a significant portion of their income on transportation, further exacerbating disparities.
The Role of the ACTE
The ACTE is set to work alongside DOT's Equity Action Plan and Strategic Plan to provide transportation access while prioritizing underserved and marginalized communities. These plans focus on wealth creation for underserved businesses, community empowerment in transportation decisions, assistance for underserved communities in planning and development, and expanding access to opportunities.
What Lies Ahead
ACTE members have until June 2023 to provide recommendations to Secretary Buttigieg and DOT. The committee is expected to meet multiple times in the coming months to craft a comprehensive report. This commitment to action is crucial, as equity should not be an afterthought but a central consideration in all transportation decisions.
Hope for a More Equitable Future
Advocates like Jack Nierenberg, Vice President of Passengers United, initially approached the ACTE with skepticism. However, witnessing the committee's diversity, expertise, and commitment to independence changed his perspective. He now believes that the spotlight on transportation equity is long overdue and hopes that the committee will bring tangible change rather than just rhetoric.
In conclusion, addressing transportation equity is not just a matter of policy; it's a fundamental step towards building a fair and accessible transportation system. The ACTE's efforts, combined with the commitment of government mobility, non-profits, and advocacy groups, hold the potential to reshape transportation in America, making it a system that truly serves everyone. The road ahead may be challenging, but with dedication and a commitment to justice, we can pave the way for a more equitable future in transportation.