Since 1956, the interstate highway system has been the backbone of North America— transforming economies, connecting places, and shaping our regions, communities, and countryside. However, in cities and towns, those same highways have inflicted a heavy toll: bisected neighborhoods, air pollution, congestion, segregation, runoff, and worse.
This month, we want to hear from you about the worst offenders—and the best opportunities to repair communities.
CNU is currently accepting nominations for a new report in our Freeways Without Futures series—highlighting the worst urban highways in North America. Each submission should identify one freeway, discuss its impact, and outline the work underway to remove it.
Nominees will be graded based on age, design, community impact, local support, redevelopment opportunities, cost savings, potential to improve access and opportunity, and existing political momentum. Individuals who nominate a freeway may be asked to provide further background and contribute to the Freeways Without Futures series.
With cities and towns across North America seeking sustainable alternatives to highway-building, this is a watershed moment for transportation infrastructure. Inclusion in a Freeways Without Futures report is an opportunity for a community burdened by a highway to generate national press, build regional momentum, and highlight an opportunity to build better health, opportunity, and connectivity in every neighborhood. Be a part of it.
Nominations are open through Friday, October 21, 2016. For more information on CNU's Freeways Without Futures series, visit: cnu.org/highways