Transportation Goals and Strategies

Transportation, as an economic sector, accounts for 29% of total greenhouse emissions. Passenger and small vehicles account for nearly half of the emissions in the transportation sector (EPA, 2019). In the Bay Area most people commute by driving personal vehicles which contributes to air pollution, lengthy commute times, and unsafe conditions for students to get to school. Transportation also has significant environmental, social, and economic impacts.

• Environmental: Transportation is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate change. In addition, the extraction, production, and global distribution of fuels for transportation can damage environmentally and/or culturally significant ecosystems and may financially benefit hostile and/or oppressive governments.

• Social: Transportation is also a major source of pollutants that contribute to health problems such as heart, respiratory diseases, and cancer. Due to disproportionate exposure, these health impacts are frequently more pronounced in low-income communities next to major transportation corridors.

• Economic: Economic growth relies in large part on transportation especially related to the development of infrastructure and global supply chains.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Federal Transportation Authority (FTA) Rules (49 CFR - part 605) says that busses must be a part of regular school service, and must be open to the general public. California has also mandated a no-idling law (ACR 160 - Chpt 98) aimed at reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions where children congregate.