A Hard Right Turn: The Moment the U.S. DOT Abandoned U.S. Walkers
Federal transportation officials have never done much to center the needs of pedestrians in their policies or funding decisions. But in 2012, things took a turn for the worse.
11:24 AM EDT on August 21, 2020
Christian has edited StreetsblogMASS since its founding in spring 2019. Before that, he was a data reporter for the Portland Press Herald in Maine.
Got tips? Send them to me via Signal, the encrypted messaging app, at 207-310-0728.
Read More:
Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.
More from Streetsblog Massachusetts
Friday’s Broken-Down Headlines
Sidewalks are too often neglected, but there are ways for cities to step up and fix these essential public spaces.
May 15, 2026
Poll Finds Eroding Satisfaction With State’s Transportation Systems, With Affordability A Top Concern
As gas prices surge, voters are waiting for lawmakers on Beacon Hill to expand public transit and reduce their transportation costs.
May 14, 2026
‘Our Roads Are More Than Just Highways’: Democrats Urge U.S. Senate to Fund Transit Programs
A Trump administration proposal recommends massive cuts to popular programs – and it will cost American communities more than they can afford, Senate Democrats say.
May 14, 2026
State Street Improvements Delayed: One of Downtown’s Most Poorly-Designed Streets Will Get A Fresh Coat of Asphalt Instead
Mayor Wu is postponing a plan to improve State Street in downtown Boston with wider, wheelchair-accessible sidewalks, safer crosswalks, and a protected bikeway connection.
May 12, 2026
Red Line’s Ashmont, Mattapan Branch Closure Begins 6 P.M. Thursday
The Red Line's Ashmont Branch will take a 5-day break starting at 6 p.m. May 14, through Monday, May 18.
May 12, 2026
