Biden administration launches $1 billion effort to correct racist highway designs of the past

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A $1 billion effort was announced by the Biden administration to correct racist infrastructure decisions of the past.

Some highways built to create physical barriers between Black and minority communities will be torn down as a result of the program. Rapid bus lines to connect communities to urban core will be one of the projects focusing on building new infrastructure.

Our focus is not about blaming. It's not about regretting or getting caught up in guilt. Pete Buttigieg, transportation secretary, told reporters that it was about fixing a problem When the damage was done through taxpayer dollars, it is important to mend.

The department is now accepting applications for the Reconnecting Communities pilot program. Federal funds will be used to finance a bus rapid transit system in the city.

The bipartisan infrastructure bill was signed into law by President Joe Biden last year. $50 million of the $1 billion dedicated to the pilot program will be used for planning activities for communities that are early in the application process.

Those with projects that are focused on equity and environmental justice, have strong community engagement and stewardship, and a commitment to shared prosperity and equitable development will be given preference.

There are many examples of infrastructure projects that were designed to disadvantage low income people. RobertMoses designed a parkway to Jones Beach on Long Island that was too short to accommodate buses and cut off Black and Puerto Rican residents from the beach.

Syracuse, where I-80 was built through a thriving Black neighborhood in the 1960's, is an example. Slower traffic will be sent to the street level and faster traffic will be sent around the city when the elevated highway is torn down this autumn.

There is a chance to right the wrongs of the past by investing in high-quality public transportation, pedestrian walkways, and linear parks and trails that encourage walking, biking, and improved mobility for nearby residents.

She said that they can support investments in retrofitting new roadway designs and complete street conversions.