More than half of America’s population lives in areas with unhealthy levels of smog and soot. The 260 million cars, trucks, and buses that travel on our roads are a major source of this harmful air pollution, as well as the carbon pollution that fuels dangerous climate change. However, states and municipalities rarely account for vehicle-generated emissions when they plan for transportation infrastructure.
Under proposed federal standards, metropolitan and state transportation planners would incorporate methods to reduce pollution in their long-term plans—supporting community needs while protecting public health. This issue paper highlights the critical opportunity to make long-lasting improvements through smarter transportation planning, and what you can do to ensure the U.S. Department of Transportation develops strong standards for states and metropolitan areas.