EDF Calls on Atlanta Regional Comm. to Reject ITIP

(24 Dec., 1997 — Washington) In a letter released today, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) called on the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) to drop its plans to adopt a new Interim Transportation Improvement Program (ITIP) when they meet on December 30th. “This proposed list of projects threatens people living in the Atlanta region by exacerbating sprawl, dependence on motor vehicles, and related air pollution which frequently exceeds public health standards,” said Michael Replogle, EDF’s Federal Transportation Director.

“Georgia DOT can no longer ignore the cumulative effects of their investments on the health of citizens and communities. Georgia DOT and the ARC must meet their legal obligations to consider a wider array of strategies and alternatives that could support economic growth without sacrificing environmental quality,” said Replogle. “The Federal Clean Air Act, National Environmental Protection Act, and Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), and possibly Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, have been violated by Georgia agencies in a rush to lay pavement.”

“The best Christmas present for Georgians would be a New Year’s resolution by state officials that they will stop digging the Atlanta region into a deeper hole of unhealthful air quality and sprawl and work with communities to assure people flexible travel choices and funding to support walking, bicycling, transit, and smart growth,” said Replogle.