In a move that has left me utterly astounded, it appears the United States is once again doubling down on its car-centric infrastructure. Despite President Biden’s promises of transformational change, a recent analysis has exposed that billions of dollars from his landmark infrastructure bill have been poured into expanding highways, rather than improving the country’s lacklustre public transport network. As the climate crisis escalates, this decision is nothing short of a ‘climate time bomb’.
The Colossal Infrastructure Bill That Missed the Mark
Let me remind you that in 2021, the US passed a massive $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law. This was celebrated as a pivotal moment – a chance to overhaul America’s ageing infrastructure and make significant strides in sustainable transport. However, a staggering proportion of funds has gone towards widening existing motorways and maintaining car-dependent infrastructure. Instead of seizing the opportunity to invest in greener alternatives, America seems determined to keep widening the well-trodden, highly polluting path.
To add insult to injury, only a fraction of these funds has been allocated to public transport improvements. Most of the remaining money is also likely to facilitate further car use, for example, by refurbishing bridges. It’s a truly disheartening state of affairs, and as this analysis from Transportation for America reveals, we are on course to generate more transport-related emissions than if the infrastructure bill had never passed.
America’s Unwavering Addiction to Highways
The US government has given states considerable freedom in how they spend the infrastructure funds, and it seems that most state authorities have chosen to perpetuate their car-focused approach. Even states like California, often viewed as progressive on climate matters, are forging ahead with plans to expand motorways. This short-sightedness defies logic; decades of highway expansion haven’t solved congestion, and they certainly won’t fix the climate crisis.
It’s important to note that the Biden administration did advise states to prioritize road repairs over expansion, and to consider the impact on marginalized communities that have borne the brunt of highway pollution. Sadly, these recommendations have been largely disregarded, prompting backlash from Republicans in Congress who seem hell-bent on more lanes and bigger roads.
The Fight for Sustainable Transport Rages On
The consequences of this motorway mania are far-reaching. It undermines any aspirations the US may have of reducing transport emissions, already its largest contributor to climate change. Additionally, this approach continues to endanger lives, with supersized vehicles playing a role in the alarming increase in road deaths.
This is why I fully support the call from over 200 groups advocating for a national freeze on motorway expansions. Our current highway model is harmful to both health and the environment. We desperately need a shift in mindset and financial priorities, moving decisively towards public transport, cycling, and walkability.
A Missed Opportunity, But Not Too Late
The contrast between America’s rhetoric and the reality on the ground is stark and disappointing. There’s still a chance to change course, but it will require a fundamental shift at the state level. Transit systems across the country, already struggling post-pandemic, need sustained investment. State legislatures must stop seeing public transport as an afterthought and actively discourage car-dependency.
Let’s be clear: if states continue spending this infrastructure windfall on expanding highways, the US will remain firmly locked into a dangerous, unsustainable transport model. This is a crucial moment; it’s time to demand better.
FAQ
Over half of the reported funds ($70 billion) are earmarked for highway maintenance and expansion.
Only about a fifth of the money has been allocated to public transit improvements.
The highway focus will likely lead to increased emissions from transportation, worsening the climate crisis.
Yes, the administration suggested focusing on road repair and considering the needs of marginalized communities, but many states have ignored this guidance.
Examples include Texas and even California, which is often seen as environmentally conscious.
Research shows that expanding highways actually induces more car usage, often making congestion worse.
