Core Principles
Transportation is a foundational element of opportunity, economic growth, and social mobility. African American communities have historically faced barriers to reliable, safe, and affordable transportation. Policy must ensure access to public transit, infrastructure, and mobility solutions that empower individuals and communities.
Key Challenges
- Limited access to public transportation in urban and rural African American communities.
- Poorly maintained infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and sidewalks.
- High transportation costs that limit access to employment, education, and healthcare.
- Disproportionate exposure to traffic accidents, unsafe streets, and environmental hazards.
- Insufficient investment in alternative mobility options like bike lanes and pedestrian pathways.
Policy Positions
1. Public Transit Expansion
- Invest in affordable, reliable, and frequent public transit in underserved communities.
- Develop regional transportation plans to connect urban, suburban, and rural areas.
- Ensure transit accessibility for seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income residents.
2. Infrastructure & Road Safety
- Upgrade roads, bridges, sidewalks, and lighting to improve safety and mobility.
- Implement traffic-calming measures in residential neighborhoods.
- Ensure infrastructure planning prioritizes equity and community input.
3. Affordability & Access
- Subsidize fares for low-income residents and seniors.
- Support community car-sharing, micro-transit, and ride-hailing programs.
- Develop incentive programs for sustainable and low-cost mobility solutions.
4. Active Transportation & Environmental Sustainability
- Invest in bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and green transportation corridors.
- Promote electric and hybrid public transit to reduce environmental hazards in Black neighborhoods.
- Integrate urban planning with climate resilience and community safety initiatives.
5. Community-Led Planning
- Engage residents in transportation planning and policy decisions.
- Ensure transparency and accountability in infrastructure and transit investments.
- Support local workforce development for infrastructure projects.