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Sustainable Transportation

 

Sustainability in Action

SR 548 roundabout


Roundabout benefits come full circle

Believe it or not, driving in circles can actually save fuel and reduce harmful emissions. Though it may sound counterintuitive, roundabouts actually have many environmental benefits – on top of all their safety benefits – that should put them at the top any intersection improvement list.

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Chunk of viaduct sold on eBay
This chunk of Seattle viaduct history sold on eBay for $16.50, but we have better ideas for recycling.




Viable ideas for viaduct recycling

WSDOT and contractor Seattle Tunnel Partners (STP) turned rubble into building materials after the October demolition of part of Seattle's Alaskan Way Viaduct. Nearly 100 percent of the old concrete and rebar from this mile-long section of the Seattle viaduct will be recycled and reused.

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Sustainable transportation is a system that preserves the environment, is durable and takes into account how we build and the materials we use. It's a system that manages and operates using policies and strategies that meet society's present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Consider sustainability in all we do
Emissions from transportation-related activities account for nearly half of the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Washington. This is one reason why we consider sustainability in all that we do. Our practices make good environmental sense and good economic sense for Washington. Our agency uses a strategic and balanced approach to conserve energy and fuels while reducing greenhouse gas emission from the transportation sector.

Making transportation sustainable
We are making transportation more sustainable in a multitude of ways - from long-range plans to our day-to-day operations. This includes designing highways that work best for communities, integrating transit, bicycling and walking into projects and employing techniques that reduce storm water pollutants. Our maintenance crews use precision snow and ice removal techniques that keep drivers safe while using the minimum amount of salt necessary.

Technology
We are using new technology and innovative methods in our efforts to provide a more reliable, responsible and sustainable transportation system. We are taking steps to conserve fuel and energy, reduce carbon emissions, and protect our natural environment while keeping people and goods moving.

Efficiency
We’re making highways more efficient by smoothing traffic flow through our busiest choke points. We're using fewer building materials by recycling and extending the lifespan of roads, bridges and other structures.

Reducing the carbon footprint
We're helping citizens and businesses reduce their carbon footprint in new ways, from expanding transit services and ridesharing opportunities to partnering to build support infrastructure along I-5 for electric and other alternative-fuel vehicles.

For more information
Seth Stark - WSDOT Sustainable Transportation Manager 
360-705-7913
Seth.stark@wsdot.wa.gov

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