Minimizing Negative Impacts

Minimizing transportation's negative impact on the environment and communities is crucial for sustainable and responsible urban planning and development. Here are some strategies to achieve this:

• Public Transportation: Promote and invest in public transportation systems to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road. Encourage the use of buses, subways, trams, and commuter trains. (Also see Prioritizing Transit Service)

• Active Transportation: Develop pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, including sidewalks, bike lanes, and shared paths, to encourage walking and cycling as alternatives to driving. (Also see Walkable Streets, Bike-Friendly Infrastructure)

• Carpooling and Ridesharing: Support ridesharing and carpooling programs to reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road, which can ease traffic congestion and lower emissions. (Also see Prioritizing Shared Mobility)

• Traffic Management: Implement intelligent transportation systems (ITS) and traffic management strategies to reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and reduce emissions.

• Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Plan and develop communities around transit hubs, which can reduce the need for car travel and promote more sustainable land use. (Also see Prioritizing Transit-Oriented Development)

• Park and Ride Facilities: Develop park and ride facilities at transit stations to make it convenient for people to leave their cars and use public transportation for part of their commute.

• Car-Free Zones: Designate car-free zones in city centers to promote walking and create safe, pedestrian-friendly spaces.

• Green Vehicles and Fuels: Promote the use of environmentally friendly vehicles, including electric, hydrogen, and hybrid vehicles, and support the development of green fuel infrastructure.

• Noise Barriers: Install noise barriers along highways to reduce the negative impact of traffic noise on nearby communities.

• Landscaping and Green Infrastructure: Incorporate green infrastructure, such as vegetation, trees, and green walls, to mitigate the visual and environmental impact of transportation infrastructure.