The settlement also requires the ARC to open their computer traffic modeling for public review, requires Georgia DOT to conduct a major study of transportation issues on the congested north side of Atlanta, and requires US DOT to study the social equity impacts of transportation investments in the region. Georgia DOT made one last attempt to pave over Georgia's future, and failed. The case has taken on national importance as the first test of whether public health will take precedence over state DOTs' efforts to build roads. Atlanta is currently the only region with an expired plan. The new guidance is a major victory for people fighting sprawl, promoting clean air and healthy communities.
Polluted air affects more than people with respiratory problems.
Cars and trucks are the largest source of air pollution in many parts of the United States. Limiting the growth in vehicle travel is a critical part of any plan to improve air quality, create more livable communities and curb sprawl. Atlanta earned its ranking as the sprawl capital of the United States largely because of Georgia DOT's aggressive highway building program.