Environment & Sustainability
Facing Budget Crisis, Washington’s Leaders Downplay Focus on Highway Expansion
As other states start to reassess their prioritization of expanding highway capacity in the face of ambitious climate goals and other transportation needs, Washington is still in denial mode.
Biden Infrastructure Law Mostly Funded Road Expansion, Leading to Climate Backsliding
A new report shows most states continue to funnel money toward highway expansion, locking in climate pollution, despite new tools to fund transit and other forms of climate action. This is a losing strategy for both the environment and increasing mobility options.
Is King County Metro Headed for an Electrification Reset?
King County Metro is set to spend hundreds of millions of dollars over the coming years on electrifying its fleet and converting its bus bases, but the question of whether those projects come at the expense of transit service is set to get a closer look thanks to a provision in the county's 2025 budget.
Op-Ed: A Wishlist for Pierce County Under Ryan Mello’s Leadership
Greening neighborhoods, boosting Pierce Transit funding by 50%, and embracing housing growth are the top three goals Rubén Casas has laid out for Pierce County under Ryan Mello's progressive leadership.
Op-Ed: Transit in Rainier National Park Would Ensure Paradise for Everyone
A robust public transit network for Mount Rainier National Park could unlock trailheads and attractions to more visitors, while improving environmental sustainability. Rather than grousing about the park's timed-entry system, let's improve access for all.
Seattle Council Updates Living Building Incentives, Unsticking Belltown Tower Project
A small tweak to Seattle's land use code will allow a 182-unit tower to move forward in Belltown after years of appeal. Clearer direction around stacking height incentives like those in the sustainability-focused Living Building program could potentially allow more homes throughout downtown in the coming years.
Sunday Video: Autonomous Vehicles Deserve Heavy Skepticism
Urbanist circles differ in how they see autonomous vehicles, particularly as they move toward wider adoption. Some see them being a tool that builds...
Pacific Northwest’s Largest Highway Project Ever Is in Deep Denial
Proponents of a $7.5 billion project to widen I-5 and replace the Columbia River bridge are ignoring induced demand, creating faulty traffic models that obscure its real environmental impact.