There is a public comment period still open on scoping for the Puget Sound Regional Council's update of the Destination 2030 transportation plan. Their website is pretty frustrating, and I'm not an insider on these issues, but here are my comments. Comment period ends Jan. 30, 2008.

What priorities should the plan update address?

Because of the long time lags in transportation planning, it is critical that we fully take account of the implications of climate change in Destination 2030. It is not enough to address average or "most likely" scenarios. Our evolving understanding suggests that climate impacts may be occurring faster than anticipated, and it is probable that our current GHG reduction efforts are not ambitious enough. All transportation planning should take this into account, by including a scenario under which in the next 5-10 years drastic GHG reductions become mandatory. Any plan that fails to do so is just wishful thinking.

What alternatives should analyzed in the plan update?

If we want to get people out of their cars, we should be looking at how to make public transit the fastest, most convenient, and cost-effective way to accomplish most trips. We should look at the possiblity of making public transit a free service, which not only encourages ridership but speeds service.

What criteria should be used in the evaluation?

 Any transportation plan that does not have GHG reductions as a central goal should be sent back without consideration.

What major environmental impacts should be covered in the EIS?

Climate change -- Greenhouse gas emissions.