Relative to greener and healthier transportation corridors
Impact
The commission formed under H3391 will include key members from various state departments, reflecting a multi-faceted approach to environmental management. It will conduct a comprehensive study to explore utilizing transportation right-of-ways for implementing natural solutions that could mitigate transportation-related pollutants. Additionally, the commission will consider both the upfront construction and long-term maintenance costs associated with the adoption of these new strategies compared to current practices.
Summary
House Bill H3391, also known as the Act Relative to Greener and Healthier Transportation Corridors, establishes a special commission aimed at improving land usage in the Commonwealth's transportation corridors. The focus of the commission is on decreasing noise, light, and air pollution while maximizing carbon sequestration and energy generation. This bill is positioned as a proactive measure to address environmental concerns linked to transportation infrastructure in Massachusetts.
Contention
Notably, the bill touches on themes of environmental justice by mandating the inclusion of a resident from an environmental justice community that abuts a transportation corridor. This inclusion is significant as it seeks to ensure that the voices of those who may be disproportionately affected by pollution are represented in the decision-making process. The report generated by the commission is expected to provide findings and recommendations, potentially paving the way for legislation that emphasizes sustainable practices in transportation management.
Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.