Class Presentations Part 2

The presentations for class today are very engaging when it comes to issues in various areas across the U.S. 
Chapter 8's group did a great job presenting the issues with Hurricane Katrina that are tied to issues of transportation. Environmental affects like debris dumping and oil spills highlighted the complex issues involved. The group also did a good job highlighting the need for better transportation for those who cannot afford private transportation in a state of emergency/evacuation. The struggles of rebuilding New Orleans and the fear the residents have show the reality of an unprepared area. 
Chapter 9 was presented well, discussing the issues with the prosperous Atlanta airport. Much of the air and noise pollution causes many minority and low income groups to suffer, which will only increase if the 5th runway is installed like the group noted. The maps the group provided showed the issues with the landlocked area and how the air pollution coalesces to cause a major issue. Highway sprawl was another issue the group did a nice job discussing- how the expansion of the prosperous area can displace many people and cause more environmental damage. 
I think my group did a nice job highlighting the issues and goals of MPOs and their role in various communities. I think MPOs play an important role in making sure community issues are balanced and represented. 
Chapter 11's group was very thorough when it comes to alternative fuel usage and the "diesel issue." Nonrenewable resources end up polluting urban areas because of the cluster of industry and transportation, causing cancer and asthma. The ozone and various air pollutants that cause respiratory problems affect those in condensed areas, mostly lower-income and minority groups. The group presented the statistics and the issues well, as well as the affects. The pollution technologies were interesting, gauging the amount emitted and what people can physically deal with before being poisoned. The group also did a great job highlighting the benefits of alternative fuel sources, with less health issues and more domestically produced. These air quality issues sparked the demand for better air quality, which was great to hear. 
Group 12 discussed fiscal issues that come with housing and transportation, and how the government tries to share benefits and responsibilities equally. Without it, the group explained, the gentrification and residential segregation across centuries would continue. Brownfields and greenfields were discussed as well, and the issues and benefits of each. Brownfields were sites of industrialism that are highly contaminated, but make it easy to access infrastructure. Greenfields aren't connected to infrastructure, but it's unlikely they'll be contaminated. Smart growth is highlighted again, allowing for more stable and sustainable communities. The balance between regional and local governance was discussed, such as Regional Coalition Building and how to integrate people in suburbs and central cities, and how each form of governance is tied to MPOs. Minorities fear regionalism because it reduces political power as well as diluting cultural identity. Regionalism is advocated for, however, to get the community to work together and save green spaces areas as well as money.