The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) issued the following statement supporting the Baker Administration’s leadership in advancing the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI), which is a multi-state agreement to establish a cap-and-invest system in the transportation sector. If fully implemented, the participating jurisdictions in the Northeast United States could see a 25 percent reduction in transportation-generated greenhouse gas emissions by 2032. The system will also generate up to $7 billion to invest in improved, low/no carbon transportation options across the Northeastern states.
“The release of the draft Memorandum of Understanding today is a notable accomplishment in the development of this program, and we applaud the Baker Administration and all of the other TCI jurisdictions for reaching this important milestone,” said Rebecca Davis, MAPC’s Deputy Director.
“In addition to curbing carbon emissions in the transportation sector, TCI will provide much-needed funds to reinvest in clean transportation solutions. Additional funding could help Massachusetts enhance and green public transit and improve our streets, sidewalks, and cycling infrastructure. Reduced emissions will also improve air quality and public health, and an improved transit system will reduce congestion and encourage economic development.
“As preliminary modeling results have indicated, the program will lead to a maximum 25 percent reduction in transportation emissions by 2032. As we grapple with simultaneous climate and congestion crises, TCI is a key tool for pursuing a more sustainable future. In order to prosper as a region and as a Commonwealth, TCI must be one component of a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions and raise revenue for much-needed transportation investments.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Administration, the Legislature, and our municipal and regional partners to build a robust, resilient, and equitable 21st century transportation system,” Davis concluded.