LWVMA has joined the Transportation for Massachusetts (T4MA) coalition. T4MA is a nonpartisan, diverse coalition of Bay State organizations working together to create safe, convenient, and affordable transportation choices for everyone in Massachusetts. Its 30 members have expertise in transportation, affordable housing, social justice, public health, the environment, planning and smart growth. Member organizations include the Conservation Law Foundation, MASSPIRG, Metropolitan Planning Area Council, and the MBTA Advisory Board. See the coalition website www.t4ma.org.
T4MA is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by providing low-carbon transportation choices throughout the commonwealth. It also works to ensure that the transportation system provides a path to economic opportunity for those without cars, like youth, seniors, and low-income residents. It supports maintaining and growing an affordable and robust public transportation system, completing streets with bikeways and sidewalks, and developing walkable neighborhoods around transit.
T4MA’s major issues reflect LWVMA’s transportation position adopted in May 2013, particularly: Support a transportation system to move people and goods which includes a variety of transportation modes, with emphasis on increased public transportation services and other viable alternatives to reduce vehicle miles traveled; is efficient, convenient, and cost effective; is safe and secure; serves all segments of the population and diverse geographic needs; minimizes harmful effects on the environment; is integrated with land use; and is supported by extensive public education.
T4MA’s stated positions are:
- Our transportation system is a vital part of our economy, providing economic opportunity and ensuring everyone can get where they need to go.
- Massachusetts needs a transportation network that offers safe, affordable, and convenient choices to our residents and businesses, including public transportation, sidewalks, and bikeways.
- People without cars, including youth, seniors and low-income residents, should have the opportunity to get to the schools and jobs that will help them pursue their dreams.
- Transportation investments should enhance mobility, expand economic opportunity, reduce pollution and greenhouse gases, and support healthy, sustainable communities.
- Public stewards of transportation funds should be held accountable for wisely, fairly and transparently using public dollars.