Improving Public Transportation Archives

Mar 13, 2019

Improving Public Transportation

CLF is working to transform public transit for all.

Mar 08, 2019

MBTA gets mostly passing grades in advocate report card

The MBTA is getting mostly passing grades on achieving its own goals, but the agency may struggle to meet major milestones in the future. That’s the outlook from a coalition that includes the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, the Conservation Law Foundation, and the MBTA Advisory Board, which represents the communities served by the T.

Mar 06, 2019

These Three Projects Could Transform Greater Boston’s Public Transit

We’re at a critical juncture when it comes to improving the MBTA. The T has three big projects in the works, all of which are connected: fare increases, a new system for collecting that fare, and improved bus service in greater Boston. These projects are an opportunity to make the system work better for everyone. Here’s how the MBTA can get it right.

Mar 06, 2019

The MBTA Has More Work to Do for Riders and the Environment

Two years after the MBTA’s strategic plan was approved, we’re looking into how well the T stuck to its own goals. While the T has completed some of its infrastructure and financial goals, it has a long way to go to meet its accessibility and climate goals.

Mar 06, 2019

Will 2019 be a turning point for the T?

Staci Rubin, a senior attorney at the Conservation Law Foundation, said riders have been patient but their patience is starting to run thin. “It’s really time for customers to start experiencing improvements,” she said.

Mar 06, 2019

Greater Boston Chamber, CLF, and MBTA Advisory Board Publish First Annual Accountability Report to Assess the MBTA’s Progress on Strategic Plan

“We must make it as easy as possible for people to get out of their cars and choose public transit, and that starts with a system that works for everyone,” said Staci Rubin, Senior Attorney at CLF. “It’s clear that the MBTA needs to focus on protecting the system from climate change and improving accessibility. These aren’t always the most visible projects, but they’re critical if we’re going to have a transportation system that is prepared for the future and doesn’t leave anyone behind.”

Feb 16, 2019

Massachusetts eyeing more renewable energy-friendly future

One bill sponsored by Stoneham Democratic state Rep. Michael Day seeks to help save taxpayer dollars spent trying to recycle what the Conservation Law Foundation describes as wasteful packaging. Another piece of legislation supported by CLF would require all large-scale fleets of vehicles in Massachusetts — public and private — to go electric by 2035.

Jan 29, 2019

MBTA Proposes Fare Hikes

“Fare increases should be modest, predictable, and necessary,” said Staci Rubin, Senior Attorney at CLF. “Riders deserve a reliable ride to get where they need to go at a reasonable price. Any potential fare increase must be tied to service improvements, like finishing the Green Line Extension and fixing the bus system for riders who depend on it most.”

Jan 10, 2019

Massachusetts Chooses Design for I-90 Project in Allston

“The hybrid option ensures a more sustainable community around the Charles River while providing a necessary link to Boston,” said Amy Laura Cahn, Interim Director of the Healthy Communities and Environmental Justice program at CLF. “However, MassDOT ignored its legal obligation to study how each option would minimize environmental and climate harms. The public needs to know that the project will prioritize the health of the river, maximize public access, and protect an area vulnerable to flooding.”

Dec 18, 2018

Transportation Advocates Commend States’ Announcement to Develop Regional Program to Modernize Transportation and Reduce Vehicle Pollution

“The health and economic well-being of people and our planet depend on bold action today to create a transportation system for the future,” said Amy Laura Cahn, director, Healthy Communities & Environmental Justice program at Conservation Law Foundation. “Environmental justice communities have the fewest resources to adapt to the impacts of climate change but have long borne the greatest burdens of pollution and transportation inequity. We welcome a regional problem-solving approach, but our most disadvantaged residents must have a seat at the table.”