Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently joined Black mayors from various cities to discuss the initiatives being undertaken by the Department of Transportation to rectify historical injustices through transportation projects. These projects, funded by the Biden administration's $3.3 billion 'Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods' program, were highlighted at the African American Mayors Association Conference in Atlanta.
Over 130 grants have been distributed across 41 states to enhance the lives of residents affected by outdated transportation infrastructures. This includes addressing the negative impacts of highways constructed decades ago, which have hindered access to essential services such as schools, job opportunities, and healthcare facilities.
Secretary Buttigieg emphasized that the investment aims to bolster communities nationwide and foster opportunities through improved connectivity. He stressed the importance of federal funding playing a role in rectifying past harms caused by infrastructure projects in marginalized communities.
Several grants, such as one in Atlanta, Georgia, involve capping highways to mitigate their disruptive effects on communities. By covering these highways, new land can be created, offering valuable space in downtown areas.
One notable project in New Rochelle, New York, will transform three highway lanes into an eight-acre linear park, connecting the city's African American community to the downtown area. Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert highlighted the park's significance in healing past wounds caused by discriminatory urban planning policies.
In Birmingham, Alabama, Mayor Randall Woodfin expressed optimism about a $14.5 million grant aimed at converting a one-way street into two lanes in the city's Black business district. This initiative is expected to revitalize small businesses and promote economic development while prioritizing equity.
Meanwhile, in Tacoma, Washington, a $1.3 million grant will fund a study on the impact of Interstate 5, known as the 'I-5 divide,' which has divided the city since the 1960s. Mayor Victoria Woodards emphasized the need to address safety and accessibility challenges posed by the highway, which have been linked to a significant decrease in life expectancy.
Secretary Buttigieg noted that while some projects are already in progress, others will require several years to complete. The overarching goal remains consistent across different communities and projects: to address past injustices in a manner that benefits all residents without causing harm.
