 A sustainable transportation system is one in which people’s needs and desires for access to jobs, commerce,
recreation, culture and home are accommodated using a minimum of resources. Applying
principles of sustainability to transportation will reduce pollution generated by
gasoline-powered engines, noise, traffic congestion, land devaluation, urban sprawl,
economic segregation and injury to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. In addition,
the costs of commuting, shipping, housing and goods also will be reduced.
Ultimately, in a sustainable San Francisco,
almost all trips to and within the City will be on public transit, foot or bicycle -- as will a good part of trips in the larger Bay Region. Walking through
streets designed for pedestrians and bicycles will be more pleasant than walking
through those designed for the automobile. Street-front retail and commercial establishments
will prosper from the large volume of foot traffic drawn to an environment enhanced
by trees, “street furniture,” (appropriately designed street lights, bicycle racks,
benches, and the like) and other people. Rents and property costs will be lowered
as land for off-street parking is no longer required or needed. Customers will be
closer to businesses; goods and services will be delivered more quickly; and time
that employees would otherwise spend commuting will be available for activities of
their own choice. The high use of transit and other alternatives to the automobile
will enable the city and state to forego expensive freeway construction, land acquisition
and housing condemnation. Old, obsolete highway segments of the automobile era will
be demolished, freeing up land to be used and developed to its greatest potential
as the community sees fit. With abundant, cheap and versatile alternatives to the
automobile, the sustainable city is truly a place of equal access and enhanced opportunity. |
