Nationwide Updates

How New Jersey Transit Plans to Keep Trains Running During a Blackout

• The first steps to building a back-up power system to keep sections of NJ Transit’s busiest rail lines running, after a blackout or storm knocks out electricity, were taken by NJ Transit’s board Wednesday.

MPOs

Washington Allowing Island County to Form New RTPO

• A state House committee this week approved a bill that would let Island County form a regional transportation planning organization, or RTPO.

PLANNING

Indiana Transit Advocates Say Buses, Trails Should Be Part of Roads Debate

• As legislators tinker with road funding plans, mass transit advocates say not to forget them.

Las Vegas to Launch ‘Innovation District’ Geared Toward High-Tech Transportation Testing

• There are a lot of cities, counties and states trying to lure companies working on autonomous and connected vehicles to conduct their futuristic business locally.

FUNDING

Nebraska Legislators Want Infrastructure Bank for Roads Projects, But Disagree on How to Fund It

• Two key senators in the Nebraska Legislature agree that an infrastructure bank could accelerate major road projects, bridge repair and economic development in the state.

ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION

Texas MPO to Hire Architect for Biking and Pedestrian Master Plan

• The Harlingen-San Benito Metropolitan Planning Organization has been given the go-ahead to hire a consultant to deliver a biking and pedestrian master plan for the region.

REPORTS & RESEARCH

Linking Transit Agencies and Land Use Decision Making: Guidebook for Transit Agencies

• The report addresses improved transit and land use decision making by providing transit agencies with the tools that may help them become more effective at the decision-making table.