Gas Prices and Behavior Change

How do drivers change behavior in reaction to higher gas prices? Recent Vermont media stories describe anecdotal evidence of changes in consumer behavior such as increases in bicycle and scooter sales (See Clean Cities Archives). Academic research indicates that changes in behavior occur over one to five years and only if the higher prices are sustained. For example, a study from Europe estimates every 10 percent increase in gas prices will reduce fuel consumption by 2.5 percent in the first year, and 6 percent in total over multiple years (Goodwin, Dargay, Hanly: 2004). A recent study by the Congressional Budget Office suggests that 10 percent increases will only reduce gasoline purchases by .06 percent in the short term and 4 percent in the long term. Fuel consumption drops more rapidly than miles traveled for three reasons: Drivers first save fuel by driving more efficiently (slower, less sharp braking, etc. - Learn More!), by choosing routes that burn less gasoline and by driving the most fuel efficient vehicle in their household. The impacts on rural residents are greater than in urban areas (Pew Survey).


Evidence exists in Vermont that fuel consumption is declining, e.g. gasoline sales in March 2008 were 15 percent below the sales of March 2007 (http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=ezh9tncab.0.0.78995ccab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.leg.state.vt.us%2Fjfo%2FTransportation.htm&id=preview) yet accurate data on the impacts of higher gas prices on consumer behavior is lacking. The Transportation Research Center is collecting data on Vermont transportation energy use for a report to be produced this summer. Send us your story!



Richard Watts
Research Director
UVM Transportation Research Center



Become a Vermont Clean Cities Guest Contributor! Send us your article with sources!

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, Vermont


This Week (May 21-28) = $3.870/gallon
Last Week (May 14-20) = $3.759/gallon
Last Year (May 14-28) = $3.028/gallon


Crude Oil Futures


This Week (May 21-28) = $131.21/barrel
Last Week (May 14-20) = $126.15/barrel

Petro Reserves

The Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) won't be receiving any more oil in the coming months. A bill to suspend the diversion of 70,000 barrels of oil a day into the U.S. reserve passed on Tuesday May 13, 2008. Passing with enough votes to avoid a presidential veto the measure will suspend any additions to the SPR until the end of 2008 or until the price per barrel drops to $75. 46 Republicans broke from the Bush Administration and helped pass the bill unanimously with a vote of 92-6. There is still a disagreement, however, of whether or not this suspension will reduce the burden of high gas prices on the consumer. The reality is, 70,000 barrels makes up a very small percentage of the 85 million barrel demand per day worldwide. [Source: Wall Street Journal]

Travel Survey

The National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) will be polling over 1,500 Vermont households over the next year. This 40 year old survey is designed to provide data on the public's use of the transportation system. As an attachment to the national survey, The Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Vermont Agency of Transportation, and the University of Vermont Transportation Research Center (TRC) have partnered with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to collect more detailed travel data for Vermont. The TRC, among other tasks, will be in charge of providing summary results of the data specific to Vermont as it becomes available. In total the DOT survey will collect travel behavior information from 150,000 households nationwide. Vermont is one of 19 "add-on" areas for this years NHTS. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

U.S. Confrontation & the Price of Oil

If disagreements between the U.S. and Venezuela persist will Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez cut oil exports to the U.S.? Phil Flynn, an analyst with Alaron Trading Corp., says this is more than a possibility. If the OPEC member nation were to cut the U.S. off from direct exports the U.S. would likely still receive Venezuelan oil through middlemen. Nevertheless, oil prices would certainly soar. In the meantime crude oil prices are continuing to rise and break records. $126 a barrel was the new record set on Friday May 9th. As the price per gallon of gasoline in Vermont inches toward $4, the price per barrel of crude oil is tinkering around $125. People in some regions of the U.S. including parts of California are already experiencing gas prices above $4 a gallon. [Source: Washington Post]

Bicycles in the Spotlight

The production of cars often ends up in the American spotlight, but what about the production of bicycles? In 2007 the number of bicycles made worldwide was twice the number of cars. During the 1990's and early 2000's bike production slowed down, but with increased concern for the environment, human health, and the price of driving, bike production is soaring. 130 million bicycles were produced in 2007 compared to the 52 million cars produced. Although biking is still underused for transportation in the U.S. accounting for only 0.9 percent of all trips, U.S. cities are looking to kick this trend and hope to double their bicycle and pedestrian routes in the coming years. In European cities, like Copenhagen, 36 percent of their commuters bike to work. [Source: Earth Policy Institute]

Public Transit: A National Trend

It is no surprise that public transportation ridership continues to rise. In larger metropolitan areas in the northeast where mass transit systems have long been in place ridership has increased by 5 percent. In places like Boston and New York 5 percent is no small number, nevertheless, people in these cities are rather accustomed to public transit. It is the cities in the west and south where people have typically been less likely to get out of their cars that the rise in transit ridership is even more significant - 10 to 15 percent. Public transportation ridership in more rural areas also continues to rise significantly. Stagecoach Transportation that serves Vermont and New Hampshire has seen increases on its predominant commuter routes rise 20 to 50 percent. With these increases Americans will likely consume slightly less gasoline this year than last - the first yearly decline since 1991. [Sources: New York Times & Concord Monitor]

Way to Go!

Way to Go week in Vermont was the way to go. With beautiful weather gracing the Green Mountain State last week, by Wednesday those participating had already reduced green house gas emissions by 200,000 lbs. Although not quite at the goal of 500,000 lbs Vermonters were well on their way at mid week. With over 567 organizations and 2,738 people participating Way to Go participation has increased by leaps and bounds over the years. Way to Go saw an increase of nearly 1,000 people involved this year over last and more than 2,000 more registrants this year than in 2005. Thanks to each of the 2,738 participants it is estimated that 9,640 gallons of gas were saved equaling a savings of approximately $35,000 (based on the average current gas prices). To learn more visit Way to Go. [Sources: Times Argus & Boston Globe]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

Hybrid NASCAR

Hybrids don't necessarily have to be just gas friendly commuter cars... [Source: UVM Communications]

A Glimpse into Transportation at Large...

Save the Oil Companies
The American Petroleum Institute is determined to brighten the image of oil companies. The institute has announced it will do so with a multimillion-dollar ad campaign over the next few years. [Source: Washington Post]



Grease Thieves
Not long ago businesses had to pay to get rid of waste grease, now they have to protect it from organized crooks. [Source: Biofuels Digest]



Ethanol Brew Kit
Why go to the gas station when you can brew your own ethanol? [Source:Reuters]



Toyota Stock
The world's second largest automaker, Toyota, is seeing profits drop. [Source: Bloomberg]



Tougher Emission Standards
Arizona will toughen tailpipe emission rules. [Source: Arizona Central]

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, Vermont


This Week (May 7-13) = $3.671/gallon
Last Week (April 30 - May 6) = $3.609/gallon
Last Year (May 1-13) = $2.948/gallon



Crude Oil Futures


This Week (May 7-13) = $124.64/barrel
Last Week (April 30 - May 6) = $116.82/barrel

Oil Investigation

Oil prices continue to break records rising above $115 a barrel just over a week ago. At the same time Exxon Mobil and other giant oil companies are experiencing record profits. Consequently, Vermonters and U.S. citizens nationwide are weary of the rich man getting richer while everyone else suffers at the pump. The call by the Vermont Senate for an investigation by the attorney general into gasoline and diesel market manipulation is the result of this phenomenon and has caused a bit of a spark. With this spark came the dispatch of the American Petroleum Industry's chief economist, John Felmy, to Montpelier to testify against the Senate Resolution. The lead sponsor of the resolution, Robert Starr, D-Essex-Orleans, says states need to come together on this investigation because those in D.C. are too invested in the oil companies. Felmy said he was astonished by this resolution - the first of its kind in the U.S. [Sources: Burlington Free Press 1 & Burlington Free Press 2]

Not Such a Smooth Ride

The Douglas Administration's Operation Smooth Ride has been everything but in the legislative process. The proposal that would put forth $3 million in funds for emergency road repairs has spent some time in the House Transportation Committee. As a result, Neale Lunderville, Transportation Secretary put a hold on priority road repair projects. When first proposed the question was, where is this $3 million coming from? Now the issue is where does this money go? The administration had planned to put the money toward Class 1 town highways, whereas the House Transportation Committee would like to see some of the money go to the towns. Other issues have also surfaced concerning this money and certain bridge projects in the state. In the meantime Vermont roads are in dire need of maintenance. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

Move Over America

The International Energy Agency has reported that emerging markets will consume more crude oil this year than the United States. This is the first time this has ever happened, says the Paris based agency. With a combined population of 2.45 billion people in China and India and an 8 percent growth in their economies car ownership and their demand for oil is on the rise. Russia and the Middle East are also among these emerging markets that are estimated to grow 4.4 percent and consume 20.67 million barrels a day compared to the U.S.'s estimated consumption of 20.38 million barrels a day. Consequently, crude oil prices will likely remain high at an average of $120 a barrel, topping $150 by the end of the decade, regardless of the U.S. economic downturn. [Source: Bloomberg]

The People on the Bus

Transit lines in Vermont are now reporting with confidence that ridership is up due to rising gas prices. Deerfield Valley Transit, the Brattleboro BeeLine, and Connecticut River Transit are just a few of the states' transit providers seeing jumps in ridership. The BeeLine expects their number of riders to hit 70,000 at the end of their 2008 year - a 20,000 rider increase over 2006. Connecticut River Transit has seen a 10 percent increase in both March and April and attributes people getting on the bus to their frustration at the pump. With increased ridership across the board, many of the Green Mountain State's bus companies are looking to better their services in any way possible, which for some means buying more buses, increasing routes, purchasing biodiesel, and most importantly looking for grant money. [Source: The Reformer]

Trail Finder

After two years of hard work, Local Motion, a bicycle, pedestrian, and alternative transport non-profit advocacy organization has launched its Trail Finder website for Chittenden County. The site, underwritten by Burlington's Ski Rack, offers easy access to 75+ trails. With the help of 50 volunteers who collected much of the information for the site, local Vermonters and visitors can now navigate the Trail Finder to retrieve maps, directions, as well as learn about special trail features. This new resource also allows those using it to submit photos and comments on the trails. The site was unveiled on Earth Day, April 22nd, just in time for the late spring early summer weather. Visit the Trail Finder at http://www.localmotion.org/ [Sources: Burlington Free Press & Local Motion]

Clean Cars and More

Burlington's Church Street, although typically only open to foot traffic, saw some vehicles grace its brick walkway on Earth Day. 10% Challenge Alliance for Climate Action in partnership with Vermont Clean Cities Coalition and others hosted its 4th Annual Clean Car (and more) Show on April 22nd. The show consisted of over 25 different vehicles, including a Solar Bus, a Smart Car, a Hydrogen Car, and several others. The show and other activities, drawing attention to initiatives working to reduce the threat of Global Warming, were an interactive way of getting Vermonters and visitors to Burlington involved in thinking about reducing our individual carbon footprints. If you were unable to attend the show view the video here. [Sources: WPTZ & Burlington Free Press]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

Delayed Rail
With cut backs in funding improvements to the state's rail system will see more delays . [Source: Rutland Herald]



Bernie Attacks Bush
Vermont's Independent Senator, Bernie Sanders, attacked Bush's plan to reduce the use of fossil fuels while addressing Global Warming saying it is 7 years late and not nearly strong enough. [Source: WCAX]



Bike Safely
There are over 750 bicyclist deaths in the U.S. each year, 96% of them involve crashes with motor vehicles. As a result the Vermont Bicycle and Pedestrian Coalition teaches lessons in road safety. [Source: Times Argus]



Telecommunication Awards
Vermont Telecommunications Authority releases its 2008 grant winners... [Source: Burlington Free Press]



Food & Fuel
How food and fuel impact our environment... [Source: Times Argus]



Bellows Falls Transit Center
New Transit Center to be built in Bellows Falls says Connecticut River Transit . [Source: Rutland Herald]



$1 Million for the TRC
UVM Transportation Research Center awarded a million dollars from the Department of Transportation. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

A Glimpse into Transportation at Large...

Going Green
Engineers and designers in several industries including the auto industry will go green piece by piece. [Source: The Detroit News]



55 Years of Oil
Shell Oil Company says it has enough oil to maintain production at current levels for the next 55 years. [Source: Financial Times]



Gas Consumed
Vermonter's consumed 10 gallons of gasoline per person per week in 2006 - where do other states stand and where are we heading? [Source: Oakland Tribune]



Venezuela says...
Food for Fuel is criminal. [Source: Bloomberg]



Railroads are Full Steam Ahead
Rail is on the rise. [Source: Washington Post]



Suspend the Gas Tax?
Clinton and McCain see eye to eye on suspending the federal gas tax this summer. Obama, however, firmly opposes this proposal. What do you think? [Source: New York Times]

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, Vermont

This Week (April 23-29) = $3.398/gallon
Last Week (April 15-22) = $3.421/gallon
Last Year (April 23- 30) = $2.860/gallon



Crude Oil Futures

This Week (April 23-29) = $117.45/barrel
Last Week (April 15-22) = $116.19/barrel

Oil Prices to Remain High

The United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently reported that petroleum sales are likely to fall this year, but costs will remain high. With a slowing economy and high fuel costs the EIA report says the consumption of liquid fuels will drop by approximately 85,000 barrels per day. Nevertheless, the price per barrel will likely average $101 for the 2008 year - a price $7 higher than last month's outlook. Gas at the pump is said to be $3.54 a gallon on average this summer, with the possibility of prices hitting $4 a gallon in California and the Midwest. [Source: Energy Information Administration]

Big Oil

Despite hard economic times and rising fuel prices Big Oil companies are making record profits. Consequently, the Vermont State Senate has called on Attorney General William Sorrell to begin a criminal investigation of major oil companies. Not knowing where the investigation may go, Sorrel is looking to find evidence of possible price-fixing, consumer fraud, or other unlawful activity. Exxon Mobil Corp. made a record $40 billion last year, while Roland Bellavance, head of a Barre trucking company and president of the Vermont Truck and Bus Association has said his company is spending $1.5 million more this year to fuel his fleet. The senate resolution also calls for Sorrel to partner with other states in this investigation. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

Money From Other Places

Roads in dire need of repair find the money, but not without some bad news to multi-modal projects. Brattleboro roads suffered, as did so many others in the state, this winter. Deep ruts in town and state highways have cost drivers their car's alignment, flat tires, and time. This will soon be fixed, but not without additional costs. Brattleboro, for one, will no longer receive money for its multi-modal project from the state this year. Although, the federal government will still provide Vermont with money for bike/ped and like projects, the state has redirected its $114,000 multi-modal allotment to the road emergency fix-up fund. The multi-modal project in Brattleboro has already seen a two year delay, and John Leisenring, Brattleboro's finance director, says the project isn't getting any cheaper. [Source: The Reformer]

Slow Down & Save Some Money

Slowing down could make driving significantly cheaper. During the energy crisis of the 1970's a 55 mile per hour (mph) highway speed was instituted as a response to gas pumps running out of fuel. Today the most efficient speed remains in the 55 mph range. Although very unlikely that posted speeds will drop, making the decision to drive slower could save people a pretty penny. Driving fast affects your wallet so much that once you hit 60 mph on the highway, each additional 10 mph (70, 80, 90...) is equivalent to the price of gas rising by 54 cents a gallon. Roger Clark, a fuel economy engineer for General Motors says at highway speeds pushing air around takes up 40% of the vehicles energy. Drivers lose approximately 4 miles per gallon with each 10 mph jump in speed. [Source: CNN Money]

Food or Fuel?

Riots are breaking out around the world in Haiti and Egypt over the high prices of food. High fuel prices are also influencing violence in impoverished nations, while also leading to an increase in the use of ethanol and biodiesel in Europe, the U.S., and other wealthier nations. With the increased demand for ethanol and biodiesel, coming predominantly from food crops, a web of high food and fuel prices is causing complications. The price of corn in the U.S. has more than doubled in the last year driven partly by the demand for ethanol. World Bank President Robert Zoellick says biofuels are a major factor in the spike of food prices. [Source: NPR]

In National Clean Cities News...

"PHEV Publicity"
Vermont makes the National Clean Cities News with the PHEV report released by the University of Vermont Transportation Research Center, the host of the Vermont Clean Cities Coalition, and partners. [Source: U.S. Department of Energy]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

Questions on Vermont's Energy Future

Passing of the state's energy bill sees questions from the Transportation Committee and others. [Source: Burlington Free Press]



$500K

It is official Bennington will receive $500,000 from an earmark secured by U.S. Rep. Peter Welch for a pedestrian underpass. [Source: Bennington Banner]



Toxins & Transit

Site in Montpelier with plans for a multi-modal transit and welcome center with millions in funds already secured to be tested for PCBs... [Source: Times Argus]



Idle-Free Updates

Idling Updates from Idle-Free Vermont... Click Here!

A Glimpse into Transportation at Large...

Diesel vs. Hybrid
New diesel-powered passenger cars are beginning to hit the market. They may not be quite as clean as other vehicles on the road, but could get better fuel mileage. Should hybrids be nervous? [Source: Business Week]



Alternative Fuel Vehicles on the Rise
Approximately 1.8 million alternative-fuel vehicles were sold in the U.S. last year - a 15% increase over 2006 sales. [Source: EE News]



Bike Library
Fort Collins Colorado has a new library in town - a bike library. [Source: The Denver Channel]



Silent Hybrids
Hybrid cars cause a problem for the blind. [Source: The Examiner]


Telecommute
Read up on telecommuting in the most recent release of The Teleworker.

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, Vermont

This Week (April 9-14) = $3.333/gallon
Last Week (April 3-8) = $3.264/gallon


Crude Oil Futures

This Week (April 9-14) = $110.72/barrel
Last Week (April 3-8) = $106.91/barrel

Sources: Gas VT, Crude Oil

No Break in Rising Fuel Prices

Filling up on regular unleaded gasoline is no longer $20 or so dollars (depending on tank size) like it was a little over a half-decade ago. As a result, Vermonter's are feeling the weight on their wallets. Vermont residents are spending 60% more on liquid fuels than they were 5 years ago, a percent equivalent to $800 million. Even more, gas prices are expected to hit $4 a gallon by mid summer. With little relief in sight at the gas pump, people and businesses in the state are cutting their discretionary spending and looking to alternatives. Marble Valley Regional Transit District, a public-transit service in the Rutland region, has seen ridership increase as much as 35% on some routes in the past year. Furthermore, companies like Casella are adopting new limits on idling time. [Source: Rutland Herald]

Ethanol to Port

Not on Vermont shores, but will the state feel the impacts of the new ethanol plant planned for the Port of Albany? Regardless of recent criticism of the fuel, ethanol plants continue to pop up. Albany Renewable Energy's plant, to be located along 20 acres of waterfront property in New York, is among one of these pop ups. The $350 million plant plans to create 600,000 tons of cargo and bring 350 barges in and out of the Port of Albany a year. At present, no barges enter this port. The plant is set to be completed by late 2009 early 2010. [Source: American City Business Journals]

Increased Ridership = New Services

Ellen Atkinson, community outreach director for Marble Valley Regional Transit District, says people are now more willing to leave their houses 20 minutes earlier to avoid driving their cars. Consequently, ridership is booming and at least one new service is being added. A midday bus service from Rutland to Middlebury will hit the streets April 15th. Marble Valley Regional Transit and Addison County Transit Resources will connect in Brandon leaving Middlebury at 11:20 a.m. and Rutland at 11:30 a.m. to bring passengers north to south or vice versa. The decision to install this new route came after a survey of riders showed that 60% would like to see a midday service. Increased ridership on several routes throughout the state also helped in the decision making, and will likely be a factor in the development of new strategic plans. [Sources: Rutland Herald & Boston Globe]

Streetscape Revival

Pedestrians in the town of Richmond may be facing a brighter future. A Vermont Transportation Enhancement grant awarded to the town is helping to revive a streetscape project that if successful will level the playing field for pedestrians, motorists, and bicyclists. The $31,000 project hopes to bring aesthetic balance, along with commercial and transportation needs to the village center. Project leader, Erik Sandblom, a civil engineer and Kathleen Ryan, a landscape architect on the design team are working diligently on different revived streetscape options. The construction of one of these options could begin as early as next year. For more information visit http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=ey5xplcab.0.0.78995ccab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.richmondvt.com%2F&id=preview. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

Crumbling Roads

Vermont roads are in rough condition this year after a winter that just won't seem to disappear. Governor Douglas says an emergency fix-up program is necessary. Consequently, the governor's administration is now on the hunt for an extra $3 million for the program the governor has named "Operation Smooth Ride". Neal Lunderville, Secretary of Transportation, announced today that he has found a way to free up this sum by taking money from the town highway emergency fund, a bike and ped fund, as well as borrowing from next year's allocation for road-leveling work. Nevertheless, some lawmakers are weary of where this $3 million is coming from, but don't disagree that paving and repair is necessary. The most recent pavement report deemed 21% of the state roads in very poor condition. A smoother ride would mean less congestion, which in theory would mean less green house gas emissions. [Source: Burlington Free Press & Burlington Free Press]

An Idling Law Set in Stone?

Arguments by the general manager of Mountain Transit Inc. of Milton, John Sharrow, to allow school buses to idle longer were unconvincing to lawmakers. A law passed in 2007 that bans school buses from idling on school grounds was initiated by Browns River Middle School students in Jericho. The students pushed the point that idling creates an unhealthy environment. The rules that govern the bus drivers say that a bus may not idle on school grounds for more than 5 minutes in a 60 minute time period. Sharrow's main argument was that, under these rules, bus cabins cannot warm up and that no consideration is being given to the driver and individuals in the bus. [Source:Burlington Free Press]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

Carbon & Climate

Vermont's leading climate scientist takes a critical, yet optimistic look at carbon dioxide and our warming planet. [Source: Times Argus]

Goodbye to the Name Vermont Transit

A Greyhound merger means the end of the Vermont Transit name and a few jobs, but not any of the services. [Source: Times Argus]

Native Artifacts

An extension to a Chittenden County bike path runs into history. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

Safety Tips

Jericho Elementary Students and their parents get a lesson on safety through the Safe Routes to School Program. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

New Transit Headquarters

Addison County Transit Resources looks to build new $4 million headquarters. [Source: Addison Independent]

$500K for a Pedestrian Underpass

Representative Welch plans to bring some money to Bennington for a pedestrian underpass. [Source: Rutland Herald]

A Glimpse into Transporation at Large...

Cali Drops Expectations on Emissions

The bar has been dropped on California's Auto Emission Rule. [Source: Google AP]



EPA & Cleaner Diesel

The EPA's Northeast Diesel Collaborative is helping clean up school bus emissions in Puerto Rico, New Hampshire and other U.S. states concentrated mostly in the New England region. [Sources: Nashua Telegraph & EPA.gov]



Why not US?

Two-thirds of the 113 most highly efficient cars available to Europeans are not available to U.S. consumers. [Source: MSNBC]

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, Vermont


This Week (March 26 - April 2) = $3.256/gallon
Last Week (March 19 - 25) = $3.255/gallon



Crude Oil Futures


This Week (March 26 - April 2) = $104.42/barrel

Last Week (March 19 - 25) = $102.10/barrel

Sources: Gas VT, Crude Oil

Fuel Prices Up Dollar Down

Oil prices are rising to record levels and the dollar is hurting. What does this mean for Vermont, the U.S., and the rest of the world?On Monday March 3, 2008 the price per barrel of oil surpassed the 1980 record. The price set in April 1980 was $39.50/barrel, equaling $103.76/barrel in today's money after inflation adjustments. The highest trade on March 3rd was $103.95/barrel - $0.19 higher than the 1980 record. Even more, since the beginning of the month the price per barrel has been tagged at more than $110 - a new record price. Vermonters voting on Town Meeting day (March 4, 2008) already expressed concern for rising fuel prices and other transportation related costs. Nevertheless, Global oil consumption is still on the rise and expected to continue to rise by 1.4 million barrels a day for the next year. [Sources: New York Times & Times Argus]

Transportation Budget

A one dollar investment today makes for a ten dollar savings down the road when investing in Vermont's existing transportation infrastructure. Titled the "Road to Affordability", Neal Lunderville, Vermont's Secretary of Transportation says the Governor's transportation budget meets much required needs. Its objective - repair, rehabilitation, and maintenance - something not just bridge historians are interested in. With a 47% increase in the Governors proposed budget for preservation related activities and an extra $500,000 to address public transit concerns Vermont's transportation future could be on the "right" track to reducing future costs to residents and reducing emissions and pollution that the State would see with the creation of new roads, bridges, and the lack of public transit. But is it enough? The Governors new transportation budget rings in at $424 million with a 4% increase over current spending without a raise in taxes. [Sources: Rutland Herald & Burlington Free Press]

Plug-In Hybrids Making a Name

CVPS and Green Mountain College target those who cannot drive yet in hopes of teaching the decision makers of tomorrow about today's technologies. The technology: The Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) - an ever more popular alternative vehicle that has, for the past year, been basking in the spotlight here in Vermont and around the U.S. Although, only three PHEVs exist in Vermont - 2 owned by CVPS and 1 by the UVM Transportation Center - they are making a splash in the news and raising the excitement of hopeful conscious consumers and soon to be drivers. The cars get 35 miles on pure electricity from a four hour charge and have an 80 to 70 mpg fuel economy. Already a part of some exciting ongoing research in Vermont, researches have found that these vehicles could make up 1/3 of Vermont's fleet without the state having to build any new power sources. Those conducting the research - CVPS, Green Mountain College, UVM Transportation Center and the students learning about it, most recently a group of Rutland 7th graders are excited to see further results. Skiing is important to me and Global Warming stinks, says one 7th grader! [Source: WCAX]

View Recent VT PHEV Research!

Walking Cities

Vermont finds itself ranked nationally on what could be considered a rather unfamiliar, but very appropriate list. Burlington ranked number 42 out of 500 U.S. cities surveyed on their "walkability". Ranked as the top walking city in Vermont by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and Prevention Magazine and number 42 overall, the cities were evaluated on 14 criteria. Evaluation criteria included air quality, public safety (i.e. pedestrian fatalities), percentage of citizens who walk to work, and the use of mass transit. Vermont's neighbor to the south had the number one walking city in the U.S. - Cambridge, Massachusetts. [Sources: Burlington Free Press & APMA]

Any & All Alternatives

The town of Hinesburg is taking a lead in looking for alternative modes of transportation. Hinesburg Rides - a three-component transportation program concentrated on offering alternatives to the single occupancy vehicle and rides to those in need of transportation - has lifted the new plan off the ground with a volunteer driver program. The program, operating through the local nonprofit Hinesburg Community Resource Center, is also working on setting up a car-pooling and ridesharing base. One of the main objectives of the program is, to not only provide these initial alternatives, but to bring even more alternatives to Hinesburg and the surrounding area by proving that further transit options are used and needed in and around Hinesburg. Hinesburg's two largest employers, Saputo Cheese USA and NRG Systems, are behind the program and one of the hopes is to see a CCTA bus route to Hinesburg in the near future. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

Ridership Up!

Whether it is the winter months or the ever increasing gas prices, bus ridership in most parts of the state is up. Even those who own cars have given up driving and have begun taking the bus. The Chittenden County Transportation Authority (CCTA) Montpelier - Burlington link has seen a 29 percent increase in ridership since last July. From fiscal year 2006 to fiscal year 2007 this specific route saw an increase of 5,670 riders and this January the route recorded a record 5,000 riders. For commuters. riding the bus is economical and responsible says those interviewed. For the CCTA increased ridership is a powerful argument for increased funding. For daily commuters located in select areas of Vermont riding the bus, the price is right, but what about longer trips out of state, is mass transit still the way to go? [Sources: Times Argus Article 1 & Article 2]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

No Biodiesel Here

The town of Marshfield gives the thumbs down to biodiesel for its town fleet, regardless of the fact that it would cost a mere 5% more than petroleum. [Source: Times Argus]



Sticks & Stuff

Vermont owned and run business - Sticks & Stuff - tries to find a green niche by collecting used cooking oil and converting it to biodiesel. Consequently, they are saving $20,000 a year on fuel expenses. [Source: Burlington Free Press]



Better Bike & Ped Plan

The Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization makes a move to update bike and pedestrian plan in hopes to offer transport alternatives and convenience. [Sources: Burlington Free Press & Boston Globe]

A Glimpse into Transportation at Large...

Some Light-Weight EVs
Chrysler, Daimler unveils new light weight (under 1,500 lbs) electric vehicles. [Sources: Design News]

EPA Regs
EPA sets new regulations to reduce diesel emissions from locomotives and marine vessels by 90% over the next seven years. [Sources: EE News]

Exporting Biodiesel
U.S. exports of biodiesel to Europe may be the right market. [Source: Des Moines Register]

Cheaper Jet Fuel
Airline carriers set their eyes on cheaper alternative fuels. [Source: Houston Chronicle]Lesser

Emitting Fuels
Transportation fuels and reducing each of their emissions... [Source: The Bulletin]

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, VT

This Week (March 11-18) = $3.251/gallon
Last Week (March 3-10) = $3.211/gallon

Crude Oil Futures

This Week (March 11-18) = $109.05/barrel
Last Week (March 3-10) = $104.17/barrel

Plug 'n Go

The University of Vermont Transportation Center (UTC) received a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) from Central Vermont Public Service (CVPS) to conduct studies on the new technology here in our hilly cold climate state. The keys to the Toyota Prius, converted by Hymotion (a Toronto based company) to run as a PHEV with household plug-in ability, were turned over to UVM President Daniel Fogel by President Bob Young of CVPS February 21st. Both Presidents, Governor Jim Douglas, and UTC Director Dr. Lisa Aultman-Hall spoke about their excitement to test this new technology and how it may curb dangerous greenhouse gas emissions. Already PHEVs have been found to have 30% lower carbon emissions than regular hybrids. With the UTC in possession of this unique vehicle more tests and research are to be conducted on the vehicle's emissions, performance, and how a fleet of these cars would impact Vermont's grid. Already, Phase 1 of the PHEV, study conducted by the UTC and partners, found that under the right circumstances Vermont's grid could support a fleet of 200,000 plug-in hybrids. Having the vehicle will allow the UTC to further test these findings moving into Phase 2 of the PHEV research. For more information and to view the Phase 1 PHEV report go to http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=79pqikcab.0.0.78995ccab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.uvm.edu%2F%257Etransctr%2F&id=preview. [Sources: WCAX, VPR, UVM Communications]

Log your Utility Miles!

Even in the dead of the winter cycling is an alternative to unnecessary car miles. Vermont has a growing community of cyclists that are pushing for people to get out of their cars and for the growth of pedestrian and bike friendly pathways. Shelburne residents, for instance, went to the polls on Town Meeting Day to vote on a $1.1 million bond for the construction of recreational paths, bike lanes and new sidewalks. The Green Mountain Bicycle Club is looking at utility miles - bike miles spent for anything other than pleasure or exercise (i.e. commuter miles) to see how useful getting in the car truly is. Steve Barner a club member and individual baffled by why people depend on their cars for short distance trips added 200 utility miles to the clubs running total in January alone. The club and its member hope to act as a model for others - influencing more people to get out of their cars. From August to December the utilities hours logged by the club saved 1 ton of carbon dioxide according to an online calculator at mycyclinglog.com. [Sources: Burlington Free Press Article 1 & Article 2]

Biofuels: A Hot Topic

With the New York Times article, "Biofuels Deemed a Greenhouse Threat" plenty of questions have hit the surface on the impact of biofuels. Consequently, the debate continues. In Vermont biodiesel and other biofuel production is quite promising says, Netaka White, executive director of Vermont Biofuels Association and chairman of Renewable Energy Vermont's Biofuels Working Group. If done in a sustainable manner on a local scale with consideration paid to the environment in which these fuels are to be produced (i.e. Corn based Ethanol has no place in Vermont) biofuel production could have very positive environmental and economic impacts. Vermont on-farm research being conducted over the past 2 years has now given us the information needed to project that over the next 10 years, using sustainable rotation practices on just 16% of our cropland, Vermont could grow enough oilseeds to replace all diesel used in our agriculture sector (6.4 million gallons per year) and more than 50% of the imported protein livestock feed for our dairies, states White. Furthermore, the Vermont Senate is considering a bill to legalize the growth and sale of industrial hemp - a seed crop with a very high yield and an efficient source of biodiesel and other valuable products. It is guaranteed that the dialog on biofuels is far from over. [Sources: Rutland Herald, Times Argus, Addison Independent]

Check out the Greenest Cars of 2008!

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy recently released a list of the 12 Greenest Cars sold in America. Of the 12 only one, the Ford Focus, was made domestically. Two cars were European made and the rest by Japanese automakers. The Washington-based non-profit group's top pick based on measures including tailpipe emissions, greenhouse gases, fuel economy and consideration given to the environmental impacts of manufacturing was the Honda Civic GX. A unique and uncommon car on the market - Honda sells about 100 a year - runs on compressed natural gas. The Toyota Prius received the second place spot. For the complete list visit greenercars.org, the council also lists the years top polluters. [Sources: New York Times & EE News]

Senator Talks Serious Rail for Vermont

Senator Dick Mazza a member of the Vermont Senate Transportation Committee says rail is and should be an integral part of Vermont's transportation mix. VTrans recognizes that tractor trailer trucks can do up 10,000 times the damage of a passenger vehicle to the state's roads, many of which are in dire need of repair. One rail car could remove this damage by 3 times as it can carry the load of three tractor trailers. The Senator states that Intercity passenger rail is also very important to Vermont as the Amtrak line to Washington D.C. from St. Albans experienced a 16.6% increase in ridership in the last year and the Ethan Allen service from Rutland to New York City a 3% ridership growth. Senator Mazza is convinced that the five-year-rail plan concentrated on improving infrastructure, funding, etc. will secure a "robust" rail system to welcome the next generation of "transportation challenges". [Source: Champlain Islander]

The Battle over Emissions Continues

A new California study says vehicle-tailpipe standards blocked by the U.S. EPA would reduce 150% more greenhouse gas emissions by 2016 than new federal CAFE standards. The "combined emissions benefit" in California and the 12 other states including Vermont that have adopted the standards blocked by the EPA would be 120% greater than the federal rules in 2016 and 89% better in 2020. Even more, if the California vehicle greenhouse-gas rules were instated nationwide they would be 109% better by 2016 and 85% better by 2020 than the new federal rules. Also, top U.S. officials, including many in the EPA, say they strongly oppose Administrator Stephen Johnson's decision to block the waiver that would allow these standards. Barbara Boxer, Environment and Public Works chairwoman, added that this decision depicts the EPA as an "agency in crisis". View Report. [Sources: EE News Article 1 & Article 2]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

New Buses promises SandersSenator

Sanders pledges to improve Vermont's public transit. [Source: WCAX]

Governor meets with Bush on Energy

Governor Douglas talks energy and the need to reduce vehicular consumption of foreign oil with President Bush. [Source: WCAX]

Vermont and High Priced Crude Oil

Prices for crude oil hit record high - above $102 a barrel. How does it affect Vermonters? [Sources: EE News & Times Argus]

A Glimpse into Transportation at Large...

Plug-in Hybrids not the right answer?

Plug-in Hybrids will undoubtedly cut U.S. gasoline use. Nevertheless, these cars could increase pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in some places. Along with the PHEV studies being conducted at the University of Vermont, Seattle City Light (a public utility) has just announced their plans to test and monitor the impacts of 13 Toyota Prius Plug-ins. [Sources: USA Today & Seattle Times]

Biofuels still on a roll & still more concerns

California to increase Ethanol fueling stations, but the International Association of Fire Chiefs says fire departments in the U.S. are not prepared to put out car fires fueled by Ethanol and other biofuels. Also, Virgin Atlantic completes it first test flight of a Boeing 747-400 running on 25% biofuels in an unmodified engine. [Sources: LA Times, Kansas City Star, & New York Times]

Here comes the Ethanol!

A $186 million Ethanol factory - the largest in the world has opened in South Bend, Indiana. [Source: Mother Earth News]

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, VT

This Week (Feb 26 - March 2) = $3.188/gallon
Last Week (Feb 20 - 25) = $3.163/gallon

Crude Oil Futures

This Week (Feb 26 - March 2) = $101.24/barrel
Last Week (Feb 20 - 25) = $99.25/barrel

Sources: Gas VT, Crude Oil

Biofuels: A Threat or A Solution?

Are biofuels the silver bullet for the environment? Two recently published journal articles are now arguing, contrary to popular belief, that biofuels are not necessarily the "environmentally friendly choice". In fact, the articles deem biofuels a greenhouse threat, stating that biofuels create more greenhouse gas emissions than conventional fuels. This information comes as a result of new studies focusing on the lands used to grow and the energy input to create these fuels. Timothy Searchinger, lead author of one of the studies and a researcher in environment and economics at Princeton University says, "Previously there's been an accounting error: land use change has been left out of prior analysis." Consequently, with land use change now in the equation, the studies rebut numbers stating, biodiesel reduces greenhouse gases by 50 to 95 percent.

This does not, however, deem the use and production of all biofuels irresponsible - much consideration can be given to this topic - as the Vermont Biofuels Association says in response to these articles, "Biodiesel and other biofuels, especially if produced and consumed locally, are playing an important role in lowering CO2 and other emissions, lessening our demand for foreign oil, and helping our farmland stay open, diverse and productive. It is of the utmost importance that we continue to work together to meet the critical fuel needs of Vermont and do this in a way that is increasingly local and sustainable." Several sources are attacking these articles - follow the story through our sources and add your own comments/ideas. [Sources: New York Times, Vermont Biofuels Association, New Rules, US DOE]

Not the Circ, but still a Bypass?

If Colchester cannot have the Circumferential Highway (Circ), will they build their own bypass? The idea rose to the surface recently when the town was investigating what to do with West Lakeshore Drive and the surrounding area. PlaceSense, a consultant, is helping Colchester envision a future for West Lakeshore Drive a street utilized by locals, but also sees quite a bit of through traffic (commuters on their way to Burlington and Essex). Colchester officials are still lobbying for the Circ, but because it would be several years before the Colchester Circ project gets underway (if it ever does), as the next proposed section to be built in Williston is under "extended environmental review" local town planners and PlaceSense are considering building their own bypass in the path of the proposed Circ. No one is building houses or business in the projected path of the Circ in Colchester, thus it is quite possible the town could make their own moves. [Source: Burlington Free Press]

A Hub for Several Modes of Transport

The Bellows Falls Intermodal Transportation Center plans inch forward. An appraisal has been approved by the Selectboard overseeing the project. $1.4 million in federal transportation money has been earmarked for this project that would turn the historic Green Mountain Railroad Station into a "transportation hub" providing rail, bus, taxi, bicycle, and carpool services for the area. The question still remains, however, who will own this property? In order for the $1.4 million to be utilized the town of Rockingham most own or sign a long term lease with the intention of turning the building into a transportation center. The other possible option is non-profit ownership with the same intentions. The projected cost to run the center is $35,000/year - a number Windham Regional Commission planner Susan McMahon says could be covered by renting retail space to Amtrak and Vermont Transit Commissions. She also adds that the town must move forward on this project. [Source: The Reformer]

Vermont to Welcome Car-Sharing!

Car-sharing will hit Vermont within the year. 84 Vermont residents gathered at Main Street Landing in Burlington last week to learn more about Green Mountain Car-Share - a car-sharing program that is set to start in Burlington with the support of the city and the University of Vermont. The soon to be non-profit organization concentrated on creating a convenient and socially/environmentally friendly alternative to car ownership hopes to have 125 members when their cars first hit the streets of Burlington. Anne Bourdon, lead organizer of Green Mt. Car-Share and co-founder of City CarShare in San Francisco, intends to spread throughout the Green Mountain State in the years to come after what she and others are confident will be a successful program in Vermont's largest city - Burlington. This is the first attempt to bring car-sharing to a more rural setting in the United States. [Sources: Burlington Free Press & The View]

Improvements to one of Vermont's More Popular Pedestrian Friendly Pathways/Passages

The 12 mile Burlington to Colchester bike-path will see some improvements in its ferry crossing on the Causeway that links Colchester to South Hero. A $300,000 state grant was awarded in January to the Burlington-based non-profit Local Motion to see that the crossing is safer, more efficient, and a more consistent passage. Currently the ferry only operates on August weekends when winds are calm enough to run the six-passenger pontoon. One of the main improvements made with the grant money will be wave attenuators -- or floating breakwaters said Brian Costello, coordinator of the advocacy group Island Line Trail. The pontoon boat itself is also receiving an energy efficiency upgrade from the Senior Experience in Engineering Design (SEED) Program at UVM. The boat is now set to run on a biodiesel generator coupled to electric motors. Fishing platforms, overlooks and wider turnarounds for maintenance and emergency vehicles are also included in the overall engineered plan under the state grant. This plan should be underway and completed by mid-2009 if Local Motion's capital fund drive raises the additional money needed. To learn more go to LocalMotion.org. [Source: Burlington Free Press Article 1 & Article 2]

Rutland to Jazz Up How People Get Around

A bike and pedestrian path is in the works for Rutland County. The Rutland Creative Economy initiative made up of four committees dedicated to bringing vibrancy to the community now has the money to set in motion one of its projects - a two-mile bike and pedestrian pathway that would stretch from Giorgetti Park to the College of St. Joseph. The Recreation Committee (one of the four committees) has been concentrating on this project for some time now and with the help of $130,000 in grant money over two years and an additional $100,000 in donations they are ready to begin construction. Next is finding the right engineering group to take on the project, the group hopes to do so and begin construction by 2009. Paul Gallo, Vice Chairman of the Rutland Creative Economy, adds "This path will bring Rutland up to par with other towns and cities within Vermont that have been enjoying the sustainable economic, social, recreational and health benefits of such a project for many years now." [Source: Rutland Herald]

In Other Vermont Transportation News...

Lake Champlain's Ferries to Burn Cleaner Fuel

The Lake Champlain Transportation Company has announced their adoption of a clean diesel. The Vermont based ferry company running services on Lake Champlain has successfully implemented Clean Diesel's (Clean Diesel Technologies, Inc.) Platinum Plus fuel-borne catalyst in its entire ferry fleet. After a 6 month testing period using the fuel in their fleet a considerable reduction in both fuel consumption and visible particulate emissions was recorded. Lake Champlain Transportation Company is hoping to act as a model for other water transport organizations looking to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. [Source: Earth Times]


The Demand for Green Buses Looking Up

A 90 year old Transportation Company out of Concord New Hampshire - serving New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and other New England states has reported a significant increase in the demand for biodiesel and hybrid bus models. [Source: Union Leader]


Cyclists Still Pushing to Pass Bills

Cyclists have high hopes for bill's passage that will make roads safer for the increasing number of bikers in the state. Between 2001 and 2005 4 to 11 percent of all traffic deaths in Vermont were bicycle-pedestrian related. Ted Auch a recent victim of a bicycle-vehicle accident in Burlington, where he was thrown from his bike and forced into small claims court to receive payments for damages rendered says the recently introduced legislation of which there are three bills addressing cyclists makes good sense. [Source: Burlington Free Press]


The Young Say Time for Change

Younger generations are pushing older generations to jump on board with environmentally friendly transportation habits. Will Shayne an 8-year-old from Burlington not only encourages his parents to drive 55 miles per hour, a highway speed that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and boosts fuel efficiency by 15%, but also requested a Global Warming birthday party where his friends took part in a bike repair workshop and later the breaking of a piñata in the form of a gas-guzzling Hummer. Already Will's parents drive a hybrid that sports a bumper sticker stating 55 mph Slows Down Global Warming - a project of Vermont's 10percentchallenge. Nevertheless, Will from Vermont and other young activists around the country are insisting more can be done to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and other sources. [Sources: USA Today & Ten Percent Challenge]

A Glimpse into Transportation at Large...

GM Faces Record Loss
How will General Motors address largest automotive loss in U.S. history for 2007 - $38.7 billion? [Source: Burlington Free Press]



Car Buyers and Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Efficiency is on car buyers' minds and a staple of this years car shows... [Source: Composites World & Kiplinger]



The Wall Street Journal Looks at VMT
CAFE standards matter, but vehicle miles traveled (VMT) matters more... [Source: The Wall Street Journal]

Weekly Petro-Stats

Gas at the Pump, VT

This Week (Feb 13-19) = $3.077/gallon
Last Week (Feb 6-12) = $3.082/gallon

Crude Oil Futures

This Week (Feb 13-19) = $96.06/barrel
Last Week (Feb 6-12) = $90.68/barrel

Sources: Gas VT, Crude Oil

Transportation $$$

Several Vermont towns and Connecticut River Transit Inc. received money last week from different funds that will inevitably better Vermont's transportation infrastructure. 21 Vermont towns will receive a total of $2.8 million in community enhancement grants from the Vermont Agency of Transportation. Of 41 applicants Arlington, Bennington, Poultney, Hubbarton, and 17 others were chosen as grant recipients based on their need for money that will go toward infrastructure improvements, including roads, bridges and sidewalks as well as bike and walking paths. Brighton, South Hero, and Wallingford will receive the largest sum of $300,000 each. Connecticut River Transit also recently received a grant of $10,000 from the Vermont Community Foundation. Executive Director of Connecticut River Transit, Gary Fox, says the money will help keep them running with rising fuel prices. [Sources: Rutland Herald, Burlington Free Press, & The Reformer]