Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Energy

How to Ease Pain at the Pump Without Deepening Oil Dependence

As the drumbeat for domestic drilling grows louder, can the Democratic leadership come up with a better alternative than tapping the Strategic Petroleum Reserve? Over at the Huffington Post, Shelley Poticha and Geoff Anderson of Transportation for America propose a few ideas that will actually pay dividends. Pols who are serious about reducing the impact of high gas prices should listen up:

We have tokeep pace with demands for public transportation, and give this countrya reason to be proud of its high-speed trains, light-rail lines, andboth rapid and conventional bus transportation options.

We need to make more of our streets safe and convenient for walkingand biking to work, school, shops and public transportation stops. Wehave to create incentives for developers to invest in our close-insuburbs and urban centers, to meet the huge demand for affordable homesin convenient locations. Americans are not dumb: given the real choice,we would much rather invest in well-located real estate than ingasoline.

We are tired of feeling like victims -- whether of oil companies, poorplanning, or a lack of vision. Americans are ready for innovativechange, if only our leaders will follow the people's charge.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Q&A: Mamdani Biz Regulator Sam Levine Isn’t Afraid To Take On Big Tech

Levine's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection is a key regulatory force against the fast-growing delivery app industry, which has huge consequences for the city's public realm.

February 13, 2026

Commish Tisch: Fix in Mix For 311

The Adams appointee wants to revamp the 311 system so that police responses are trackable.

February 13, 2026

On Board! New Yorkers Want Weekend G Train Extension to Forest Hills

More service is a no-brainer, riders said.

February 13, 2026

Cyclists Still Getting Criminal Summonses — And Mayor Mamdani Is Still Waffling

Another day, another criminal sting against cyclists — and another day of Mayor Mamdani blowing off questions about why he is continuing a policy of his predecessor that he says he opposes.

February 12, 2026

Mamdani Pitches Free Buses (Cheap!) Plus Other Transportation Needs on ‘Tin Cup’ Day in Albany

The mayor gave his former colleagues in state government a glimpse of his thinking on transportation and city operations, and hopes they can send more cash his city's way.

February 12, 2026
See all posts