As opposed to back to the future? Sort of. Our leaders are starting to look at turning back the clocks on transportation planning – in the interest of health, energy conservation, and environmental concern. And it makes a whole lot of sense.
The Lancaster County Plann
ing Commission recently released a report on transportation and public health in the county. They observe that our society’s transportation planning has become so automobile-centric with communities and businesses that are so spread apart, we’re driving everywhere – which affects our health, wastes energy, and pollutes the environment.
With that in mind, they’re looking at promoting mixed use zoning; pedestrian, bicycle, and public transportation-friendly features; traffic calming; and other measures. And how is that moving forward to the past? Think about it.
Before the automobile – or even the horse-drawn wagon – most people lived, shopped, and worked in a relatively small area. Not only did it help us keep more fit and preserve the environment, it kept us closer and more involved with our local community and the benefits that brings: safer for our children, knowing our neighbors better, supporting local businesses, and lots more.
And no, I’m not waxing nostalgic (I’m not that old), nor am I ignoring technology and the global society and economy, or sticking my head in the sand. It’s just that people need the help of other people to survive and grow. And the Planning Commission’s decision to encourage more healthy transportation – and closer-knit communities – is a great idea.
Thanks for listening.
Bob Stauffer
