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May 26 2023, MARK FADDEN

Will ‘smart’ gondolas be the next new way to get around DFW?

May 25, 2023

Traffic congestion is a decades-old problem in Dallas-Fort Worth, and it took a Mountain View, California-based company to bring an innovative solution to North Texas — with a brief stop in New Zealand first. 

With plans for high speed rail in the Metroplex stalled, a transportation option that most associate with amusement parks and ski resorts is under discussion.

Four DFW cities — Arlington, Dallas, DeSoto and Plano — have expressed interested in pursuing gondola-style mobility networks to address their growing traffic congestion issues. 

Two women talking outside, one holding green folders.
Mar 20 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

EPA officials visit the Barnett Shale — ground zero of the fracking boom

EPA officials visited the Barnett Shale, noting pollution risks from fracking near residential areas. Community members, including Liveable Arlington, highlighted lax regulations and health concerns. Despite past productivity, Barnett output has declined. Locals seek stronger monitoring and oversight, amidst challenges from state laws limiting city fracking bans.
Various tools on a wooden surface including wrenches, hammers, and screws.
Mar 03 2023, JULIE THIBODEAUX

New programs aim to make Dallasites more climate resilient

In March 2023, Dallas launched two initiatives to boost climate resilience: Whole Home Dallas connects residents to resources for weatherization and energy efficiency; Green Job Skills offers free, self-paced training for construction workers in energy-efficient home improvements. Both programs support the city's climate action goals.
White house with black roof, two garages, and a car in the driveway, surrounded by greenery.
Sep 29 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

DFW Solar Tour returns Saturday

The 13th annual DFW Solar Tour returns in-person on Oct. 1, after two years online. Hosted by the North Texas Renewable Energy Group, this free event showcases six locations promoting renewable energy education. Highlights include advanced solar homes and insights into energy storage and financing options.
Worker in blue overalls using a leaf blower outdoors.
Sep 02 2022, JOHN KENT

Ban the blower? Gas-powered lawn tools blast suburban bliss

At dawn, loud and polluting gas leaf blowers invade neighborhoods, disrupting peace. These devices emit significant pollution and noise akin to jets. Electric alternatives are viable, quieter, and cleaner. Cities are shifting to electric blowers, promoting bans and buyback programs to ease transitions while considering lawn care businesses.
A person in a brown costume stands under a tree with a wind chime on a grassy field.
Aug 10 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Arlington activists push back on new gas drilling

Arlington approved 11 new gas wells near homes without public input, sparking activist opposition. The 2019 ordinance allows administrative approvals in established zones without notifying residents. Critics, like Liveable Arlington, cite health studies linking fracking to serious impacts. Total Energies operates the Bruder site, with activists demanding stricter regulations.
Wind turbines silhouetted against a vibrant sunset sky.
Jul 22 2022, Mitchell Ferman

Offshore wind farm proposed near Galveston

The Biden administration announces the development of the Gulf of Mexico’s first offshore wind farms off Texas and Louisiana coasts, expected to power 3 million homes. The planned Galveston project spans 546,645 acres and will power 2.3 million homes, while another near Port Arthur covers 188,023 acres, powering 799,000 homes.
Jul 01 2022, Erin Douglas

SCOTUS limits EPA’s ability to regulate greenhouse gases

July 1, 2022

The high court said a cap on power plants’ carbon dioxide emissions that forces a transition to other fuels may be a “sensible” solution to the climate crisis, but that Congress did not give the Environmental Protection Agency the broad authority to make such requirements. Texas was one of 17 states that joined in the suit.

TEXAS TRIBUNE

Two black trucks parked outside a large stadium.
Jun 23 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Trucking co. adds electric big rigs to Fort Worth fleet

Fleetmaster Express introduced two Volvo VNR electric trucks in Fort Worth, part of a collaboration with Volvo, Ball Corporation, and Nacarato Truck Centers. The e-trucks, with a 275-mile range, support sustainability goals by replacing diesel vehicles. They will transport aluminum cans for Ball Corporation to reduce emissions.
Electric car charging port on a sleek, gray vehicle.
Jun 10 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

North Texas nonprofit aims to speed up transition to EVs

The Texas Electric Transportation Resources Alliance Education Fund announced the North Texas Electric Transportation Compact to advance electric vehicle adoption in DFW. Led by Brandy O’Quinn, the initiative will collaborate with local entities to reduce emissions and improve air quality amidst federal ozone violation concerns.
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