Transportation news covering roads, bridges, public transit, infrastructure spending, and transportation policy developments.
Economy Minister Luis Caputo announced the privatization of eight national highway corridors spanning 11 provinces. The 20-year concession model requires 100% private investment with no state subsidies, completing the privatization of Corredores Viales S.A.
The article argues that small wooden riverboats, known as baleinieres, are critical to food security and connectivity in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It highlights their socio-technical role while noting the lack of research into the frequent accidents that claim hundreds of lives annually.
The article reports on the opening of a new Jerusalem light rail section after significant delays, noting that low frequency and closures raise questions about whether the long-awaited infrastructure upgrade justifies its cost and time.
A joint study by American and Chinese researchers analyzing 417 urban areas from 2010 to 2019 identifies federal funding as the strongest driver of mass transit ridership. The data shows subsidies generate significantly higher ridership gains in smaller markets compared to large metropolitan areas.
Tyler Dawson argues that Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's push for a provincial passenger rail network, while seemingly at odds with conservative car-centric culture, is a pragmatic response to unsustainable highway expansion and population growth. He suggests the initiative reflects realistic infrastructure planning despite political contradictions.
The Indian Express reports on India's rollout of multi-lane free-flow tolling, detailing the integration of digital local passes with DigiLocker and VAHAN. It outlines the NHAI's implementation strategy, including HSRP mandates and strict penalty rules for unpaid fees, aiming for nationwide coverage by March 2029.
The Indian Express examines Andhra Pradesh's new pedestrian safety policy, which mandates footpath audits, encroachment removal, and fines for design failures causing deaths. The article outlines the policy's scope, enforcement mechanisms under the Motor Vehicles Act, and its potential to address high pedestrian fatality rates in the state.
The article argues that Manchester Airport's second runway, despite significant environmental protests in the late 1990s, has delivered substantial economic benefits. It highlights a report projecting £9.5bn in economic impact and support for over 117,000 jobs by 2026, balancing ecological concerns with regional growth.
The author argues that Rhode Island's planned reinstatement of truck tolls is financially unsound, citing inconsistent revenue projections from Governor Dan McKee and high operational costs. A state study indicates the burden falls heavily on local supply chains, with no other state adopting a similar model.
A Milwaukee Journal Sentinel letter argues against the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's I-94 expansion, citing cost overruns and inefficacy in reducing congestion. The author contends that funds should instead support public transit to improve equity and climate resilience.