Amtrak to Expand Service Under Biden Infrastructure Plan
The proposed American Jobs bill will award $80 billion across eight years for Amtrak improvements, and the railway would use some of the funding to add up to 30 new routes by 2035.
Connecticut Expected to Increase Off-Shore Wind Contracts
To achieve the 2040 goal of powering all electricity from zero-carbon sources, the state will need to more than double their 2030 goals. Currently, about 65 percent of Connecticut’s electricity comes from zero-emission sources.
THE FUTURE OF Community Design
Federal Spending Could Bring High-Speed Rail to Texas
Congress has filed a bill that would provide $205 billion for high-speed rail projects across the nation. But skeptics don’t think a bullet train will ever come to Texas after a decade of empty promises.
Recall of California Gov. Gavin Newsom Could Be Bumpy Ride
Out of the 55 attempts, there has only been one successful recall in the state’s history. While it seems there could be a recall election before the end of the year, many details are still unclear.
Will COVID-19 Change Our Approach to Elderly Care?
Older Americans have been in isolation during COVID-19 to protect their physical health, but the solitude has damaged their mental health. Advocates hope the pandemic acts as a wake-up call for better long-term solutions for elderly care.
Biden Administration Building Back Better Government IT
Technologists who have worked for and with the government say the change in presidential administrations has sparked new interest in public-sector tech efforts, and the moment is perfect for it.
California Energy Officials Trying to Avoid Summer Blackouts
Officials are scrambling to expand the state’s electric grid in anticipation of the summer heat and the looming green energy timelines. But to avoid more blackouts, California may need a complete infrastructure overhaul.
THE FUTURE OF Community Design
Carpool Lanes Encourage EV Sales but Increase Inequity
Electric vehicle incentive programs, like the Clean Air Vehicle decal program, which gives access to carpool lanes, can encourage some consumers to make the switch, yet EVs are still out of reach financially for many.
Will the Chauvin Trial Set a New Online Court Standard?
The Derek Chauvin trial is accessible to anyone with a reliable Internet connection, providing an unprecedented level of access to Minnesota courts. Some hope this becomes the norm as more trials are televised.
“Election Integrity” Bills Target Harris County Voting
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott voiced support for Republican bills that target Harris County’s efforts to expand early voting and mail-in ballot access during the 2020 election, increasing the focus on election security.
The New Normal: What A Post-COVID World Looks Like
As vaccine rates continue to rise, many officials are establishing guidelines for what people can expect the new normal to be like. Masks, plexiglass barriers and online shopping are likely to stay.
