Pennsylvania DOT releases transportation equity report

July 15, 2021

Report evaluates programs and initiatives that could help support equitable transportation in the state

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) this week announced the release of the department's first Dismantling Systemic Racism and Inequities (DSRI) report.

This report evaluates PennDOT's diversity and inclusion efforts, looks to better understand structural racism in transportation, and evaluates programs and initiatives that could help support equitable transportation in Pennsylvania, the department says. 

"Race and transportation have long been intertwined, and the nation's infrastructure investments have impacted generations of people of color," PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said in a statement. "It's our responsibility to be honest about these impacts and take definitive steps toward a transportation system that serves everyone equitably."

PennDOT oversees programs and policies affecting highways, urban and rural public transportation, airports, railroads, ports, and waterways. More than three-quarters of PennDOT's annual budget is invested in Pennsylvania's approximately 120,000 miles of state and local highways and 32,000 state and local bridges.

PennDOT's DSRI report was spearheaded by a working group representing staff from across the department that met weekly to evaluate various measures of equity across PennDOT's operations and identify areas for improvement.

The DSRI report discusses how PennDOT can achieve greater equity in the areas of contracting, public involvement, community investment, boards and commissions, and the agency's own internal culture. PennDOT says the report was informed through discussions with community leaders, PennDOT staff who are people of color, and leaders at other state departments of transportation. Additionally, the report reflects the work of an executive working group, which embarked on several initiatives that will have short- and long-term impacts on vulnerable populations and communities of color.

-----------

SOURCE: Pennsylvania DOT

Sponsored Recommendations

The Science Behind Sustainable Concrete Sealing Solutions

Extend the lifespan and durability of any concrete. PoreShield is a USDA BioPreferred product and is approved for residential, commercial, and industrial use. It works great above...

Proven Concrete Protection That’s Safe & Sustainable

Real-life DOT field tests and university researchers have found that PoreShieldTM lasts for 10+ years and extends the life of concrete.

Revolutionizing Concrete Protection - A Sustainable Solution for Lasting Durability

The concrete at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center is subject to several potential sources of damage including livestock biowaste, food/beverage waste, and freeze/thaw...

The Future of Concrete Preservation

PoreShield is a cost-effective, nontoxic alternative to traditional concrete sealers. It works differently, absorbing deep into the concrete pores to block damage from salt ions...