Supersized Highways

Texas is planning a behemoth, statewide transit system that raises more questions than it answers.

1 minute read

February 9, 2005, 11:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"The TTC, a 4,000-mile network of asphalt, would consist of corridors a quarter of a mile across. Picture a total of six lanes for cars and four lanes for trucks. Then add six tracks for rail, and throw in room for oil and gas pipelines and utility lines, with high-voltage towers to boot.

...What are the environmental effects of such a mammoth road network on various ecosystems, such as wetlands and prairies? Even Texas cattle ranchers aren't so keen - they'd lose lots of grazing land. How will security issues be addressed on such a mammoth transit route? And what happens at the border of say, Oklahoma, as this giant corridor connects to an ordinary-sized interstate?"

Thanks to Chris Steins

Tuesday, February 8, 2005 in The Christian Science Monitor

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog