Adie Tomer

1 month ago | brookings.edu | Adie Tomer |Ben Swedberg |Robert Puentes

Last month, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy rescinded the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) power to charge drivers who enter Manhattan south of 60th Street, officially known as the “Congestion Relief Zone.” President Donald Trump celebrated and playfully suggested New Yorkers would crown him king for doing so. But here’s the thing: New York’s congestion pricing may not be as hated as the president believes.

Jan 17, 2025 | brookings.edu | Adie Tomer

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority earlier this month launched New York City’s congestion pricing program, with early indications the program is achieving its aims. After many exploratory efforts across the country, this is the first time any American metropolitan area is charging drivers to enter an entire zone of their central city, in this case Manhattan below 60th Street.

Sep 19, 2024 | brookings.edu | Joseph Kane |Adie Tomer

A more extreme and uncertain climate is leading to tangible harms across the U.S., including stresses on transportation and water systems. While major storms and other acute shocks can lead to sudden and severe destruction, rising heat and other chronic stresses can lead to gradual environmental, economic, and public health challenges. That means greater operational and insurance risks, as well as rising damage, disruptions, and costs to physical infrastructure assets over time.

Sep 17, 2024 | brookings.edu | Adie Tomer

The American transportation sector is dragging down the country’s overall environmental record. Since 2017, transportation activities have emitted the most greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of any economic sector, while the ambient particulate matter emitted from tires, brakes, and tailpipes further degrade local air, soil, and water quality. The only way to reduce these negative effects is to lessen the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and promote cleaner transportation activities.

May 6, 2024 | brookings.edu | Jenny Schuetz |Adie Tomer

Summer is just around the corner for much of the U.S. Traditionally, the season between Memorial Day and Labor Day has strong positive associations: vacations from school and work, basking in sunshine at the beach, enjoying hot dogs and beer at baseball games. But climate change is quickly altering how we collectively dream of summer. More communities now experience summer temperatures outside the range of what most people find enjoyable.