MARCH 2013

"Location, location, location near public transportation" may be the new real-estate mantra according to a new study released last week by the American Public Transportation Association and the National Association of Realtors. The study suggests that during the last recession, residential property values performed 42% better on average if they were in close proximity to public transportation with high-frequency service. Read about it in Realtor Mag.

The Department of Transportation and the Department of Health and Human Services announced a public health campaign which aims to encourage less driving, lower speeds, and encourage more cycling and walking as a means to meet the nation's transportation needs. Read about it in Streets MN.

State News

Suffolk County has issued RFPs for two studies which will provide a foundation for advancing the "Connect Long Island" initiative. The initiative, headed by Nassau County Executive Steven Bellone, aims to create new mass-transit connections between major road ways, Long Island Rail Road stations, and transit-oriented downtowns to relieve traffic congestion, increase mobility, and spur economic growth. Read about it in Long Island Exchange.

Members of the Tappan Zee transit task force are leaning towards a greater emphasis on incorporating bus transit options into the construction of the new Tappan Zee Bridge instead of a commuter rail line. The new rail line which would have run across Rockland County to Tarrytown was dismissed largely due to its expense, as well at its emphasis on travel to New York City. Shifting employment centers are cited as the main reason for the change. Read about it in The Record Online.

Google Maps is now publishing real-time data for the NYC subway. Info for all subway lines is not currently available, but it marks another step in transit technology which advocates hope will encourage subway ridership. Read about it inTransportation Nation.