Strengthening Tribal Transportation
A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, & Medicine (NASEM) reveals thousands of miles of roads owned by Bureau of Indian Affairs on reservations are among the most unsafe and poorly maintained. Further, despite Indian Country's 160,000+ miles of roadway eligible for federal funding, their transportation systems continue to remain underdeveloped.
The report also notes a lack of public transportation on many reservations which, combined with roads in need of repair and in rural locations, complicates access to quality health care, food, education, and employment for many American Indian and Alaska Native people.
During Native American Heritage Month (NAHM), the Transportation Research Board (TRB) is spotlighting resources to strengthen the safety and services of tribal transportation:
- TRB's 2024 Annual Meeting in Washington D.C. will feature two studies focused on inequities in tribal transportation safety.
- The BTSCRP report "Highway Safety Behavioral Strategies for Rural & Tribal Areas" provides strategies for safer people, roads, vehicles, speeds, and post-crash care.
- The NCHRP report "Integrating Tribal Expertise into Processes to Identify, Evaluate, & Record Cultural Resources" explores the requirements and intent of Section 106 for successful project outcomes on surface transportation projects.
- The NCHRP report "Access to Jobs, Economic Opportunities, & Education in Rural Areas" defines and addresses the unique accessibility challenges in rural communities, offering some examples along with strategies and a planning process.
Visit TRB for more information & resources on tribal transportation
Native American Heritage Month
Observed annually, Native American Heritage Month celebrates the rich cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Native Americans.
Throughout November, NAMH events, educational programs, and cultural activities provide an opportunity to learn about the heritage of indigenous communities, honor their resilience and accomplishments, and raise awareness about the challenges they face today.
NHPA & Section 106
The 1966 National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) was established to curb the impact on historical and cultural places resulting from federal urban renewal & Interstate Highway System programs.
Section 106 of NHPA requires federal agencies to (a) account for their impact on historical properties listed in or eligible for the National Register, and (b) provide the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation an opportunity to comment on the agency’s actions.
