Dear John, 

Imagine the last time you were stuck in traffic or wanted to use public transportation but couldn’t because there wasn’t a bus or train to get from point A to point B. 

Now, imagine a modern transportation system that’s affordable, efficient, accessible and clean. One that prioritizes people in the poorest and most polluted communities in the country. This transportation system isn’t a vision of the distant future, it’s already getting built in California and now it’s a possibility across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

In October, we shared that your policy makers released a draft policy framework for a regional clean transportation program that would limit carbon pollution, make polluters pay, and invest billions of dollars a year in clean transportation solutions. We need your support to ensure communities most in need are getting the benefits of those investments! 

Today, we released a new equity toolkit for a clean transportation system. For months, we’ve been working on this toolkit to guide state officials, advocates, and community partners on how to design a regional carbon pricing program that is responsive to the needs of low-income families, neighborhoods overburdened by tailpipe pollution, and transit-underserved communities.

We know that putting a price on carbon alone won’t be enough. That’s why we need to make sure states design the program in a way that truly benefits the communities who are most impacted by pollution and who are currently underserved by transit and mobility options. Let Mayor Muriel Bowser know that a clean modern transportation future must also be affordable, accessible, and work for all.

Similar programs have reduced emissions and saved consumers money, but not everyone has benefited equally. When those with the most privilege reap the greatest benefits, existing disparities continue to grow. 

If done right, the regional program should cut pollution and also cut inequality. Show your support for this transportation future by taking action today.

Thanks for your support, 

Eleanor, Senior Campaign Manager 

P.S. Check out our latest toolkit, Designing an Equitable Cap-and-Invest Policy for Transportation.