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USDOT selects The Ray as Capacity Builder for 15 communities in launch of national Thriving Communities Program
The Ray partners with USDOT to boost transportation projects in 15 communities in the Thriving Communities Program with $5.1M in technical assistance.
Last Updated on July 3, 2024 by Daily News Staff
ATLANTA, Ga. – May 10, 2023 – The Ray announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded $5.1 million to The Ray and partners Arcadis, InfraStrategies, and Beverly Scott Associates to support 15 communities as a Networked Communities capacity builder within the USDOT’s Thriving Communities Program. The 15 communities matched with The Ray are located near ports, airports, freight, and rail facilities. Community infrastructure needs and priorities will drive The Ray’s capacity building strategy and focus on mobility, access, housing, economic issues, workforce development, and environmental justice.
The Thriving Communities Program provides two years of no-cost, intensive technical assistance to under-resourced or disadvantaged communities to help identify, develop, and deliver transportation projects that can both strengthen and transform their community. The technical assistance and capacity building approach includes support for all stages of projects, from planning and permitting to procurement and contract administration, through construction, operation and maintenance.
“My father, Ray C. Anderson, helped to green the White House and chaired a sustainability committee under two Presidents,” said Harriet Langford, founder of The Ray. “Yet again, through The Ray’s partnership with Thriving Communities, his commitment to net-zero, his belief in technology for good, and his influence through proving – then scaling fast – will be shared across the country with communities that need it most today.”
About the Thriving Communities Program
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act provides historic, unprecedented federal investment in transportation and infrastructure. Before now, local communities have not been traditional partners to the federal government and have not had the opportunity to receive direct federal funding. The Thriving Communities Program recognizes that these communities are at a disadvantage when competing for federal funds. The Program is designed to bridge the resources gap by pairing these communities with organizations that offer a variety of capacity building services, intended to give communities the ability to compete for and leverage these funds to build and sustain their own infrastructure development.
“The approach of the Thriving Communities Program centers on equity, community leadership, and workforce development to build and embed long-lasting, community-driven infrastructure solutions,” said Laura Rogers, Deputy Director of The Ray.
The capacity builder team led by The Ray will work on the front lines with the 15 Networked Communities to ensure they are in a position to compete for and benefit from federal resources, creating transformational opportunities to plan and implement impactful infrastructure projects. The Ray’s proven record of success working with local, state, and regional government agencies, coupled with wide ranging relationships with industry through public-private-philanthropic partnerships (P4), will be leveraged to lead this capacity building approach. The capacity builder team is entirely woman-led and understands the importance of building wealth, empowering communities, and providing equitable access to support people and communities so they can thrive. The team will support these communities by providing:
- Technology transfer
- Connections to private sector technologists and experts
- Connections to peer transportation agencies
- Advanced planning tools and software
- Technical assistance
- Procurement assistance
- Project organization and facilitation
- Policy analysis
- Public awareness and promotion
- Financial evaluation, planning, & strategy
Networked Communities
Networked Communities are special places where families can grow, businesses can thrive, and underserved, overburdened, and disadvantaged communities can flourish if provided the opportunity. Many of the communities that were chosen for the Program had previously applied for federal funding but were unsuccessful due to a lack of necessary resources to be competitive. The communities also come into the Program with varying levels of needs that range from advancing stalled feasibility studies to securing funds for the implementation of policy and infrastructure improvements. The Networked Communities are from urban, suburban, and rural communities that are located near significant transportation facilities and include:
- Montgomery, Alabama
- Wrangell, Alaska
- Saint Paul, Alaska
- Douglas, Arizona
- San Lois, Arizona
- Osceola Port Authority, Arkansas
- Doraville, Georgia
- Detroit, Michigan
- Chester Economic Development Authority, Pennsylvania
- Pottstown, Pennsylvania
- Charleston Area Transportation Study, South Carolina
- Brownsville, Texas
- Kearns Metro Township, Utah
- Nisqually Indian Tribe, Washington
- Upper Kanawha Valley Strategic Initiative Council, Washington
“The Ray, from its inception, has leveraged philanthropy through the P4 model – via technical assistance, powerful software and tools, and a stubborn commitment to project execution – to accelerate our mission to achieve net-zero transportation,” said Rogers. She continued, “The Thriving Communities Program is evocative of The Ray’s core model that we’ve fine-tuned over the last eight years, and now we have the privilege to work with USDOT in partnership through TCP to scale our impact even more broadly.”
Bringing Together Experienced Partners and Innovative Technologies
The Ray, Arcadis, InfraStrategies, and Beverly Scott and Associates are a team of world-class experts who are transforming transportation infrastructure by leading the way with some of the world’s boldest thinking, building projects that inspire confidence in new innovations, and showing that the technologies and path to achieve safe, sustainable, and equitable transportation already exist. Using their combined experience, the team will work with the USDOT to help plan, develop, and support the scaling of infrastructure improvement projects across the 15 communities selected as Networked Communities.
Source: The Ray
Related Links
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/
Author
aerospace
Boom Supersonic Update 2026: Overture Progress, XB-1 Milestones, and What’s Next
Boom Supersonic’s 2026 update: XB-1 test success, Overture production timeline, funding progress, and the challenges facing the return of commercial supersonic travel.
By STM Daily News Staff
The race to bring back commercial supersonic travel is accelerating once again, led by Boom Supersonic, a Colorado-based aerospace company aiming to succeed where Concorde left off. As of 2026, the company has achieved meaningful technical milestones—but still faces significant financial, regulatory, and industrial hurdles.
Here’s a comprehensive look at where Boom stands today, and what it means for the future of high-speed air travel.
XB-1 Demonstrator Completes Historic Test Program
Boom’s experimental aircraft, the XB-1, has successfully completed its flight test campaign, marking a critical step toward validating the company’s supersonic technology.
- Achieved multiple supersonic flights in 2025
- Demonstrated aerodynamic stability and performance
- Tested “boomless cruise” capabilities to reduce sonic disturbances
The XB-1 program served as a scaled demonstrator for the company’s flagship commercial jet, proving that modern materials, software, and engine integration can support efficient supersonic flight.
With testing complete, the aircraft is expected to be preserved as a prototype, representing a turning point in private-sector aerospace innovation.
Overture: Boom’s Commercial Supersonic Jet
The centerpiece of Boom’s vision is the Overture, a next-generation supersonic passenger aircraft designed to carry between 60 and 80 passengers at speeds approaching Mach 1.7.
Current projected timeline:
- Prototype rollout: Targeted for 2026
- First flight: Expected around 2027
- Commercial service entry: Late 2020s (estimated 2029–2030)
Unlike Concorde, which catered primarily to elite travelers, Boom aims to position Overture with business-class pricing, potentially expanding access to faster global travel.
The aircraft is also being designed with sustainability in mind, including compatibility with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Funding and Financial Momentum
In recent developments, Boom Supersonic secured an additional $100 million in funding, reinforcing investor confidence in the company’s long-term vision.
However, building a supersonic passenger aircraft remains one of the most capital-intensive challenges in aviation. Continued fundraising and strategic partnerships will be essential as the company moves from prototype to production.
Boomless Cruise: A Potential Game-Changer
One of Boom’s most significant innovations is its focus on “boomless cruise,” a method of flying supersonically without producing an audible sonic boom on the ground.
If proven viable at scale, this technology could influence regulatory changes—particularly in the United States, where overland supersonic flight is currently restricted.
The ability to fly faster-than-sound over land would unlock major domestic routes, dramatically reducing travel times between cities like New York and Los Angeles.
Manufacturing Challenges and Delays
Despite technical progress, Boom’s manufacturing ambitions face uncertainty. A planned production facility in North Carolina has experienced delays, raising questions about when large-scale assembly will begin.
Scaling production from prototype to commercial aircraft remains one of the most difficult phases of any aerospace program, requiring supply chain coordination, workforce development, and regulatory alignment.
Industry Skepticism Remains
While Boom has secured interest from major airlines, skepticism persists within the aviation industry.
Key concerns include:
- Certification complexity and regulatory approval timelines
- Operational costs versus ticket pricing
- Long-term demand for supersonic travel
Even airline executives have expressed cautious optimism, with some suggesting the project’s success remains uncertain.
The Bigger Picture: A Defining Decade for Supersonic Travel
Boom Supersonic has moved beyond concept and into real-world testing, demonstrating that modern supersonic flight is technically achievable.
However, the next phase—bringing Overture to market—will determine whether supersonic passenger travel becomes a viable industry once again or remains an ambitious experiment.
If successful, Boom could redefine global travel times. If not, it will join a long list of bold aerospace ventures that struggled to overcome economic reality.
Sources and External Links
- Boom Supersonic – Year in Review
- XB-1 Aircraft Overview
- Overture Aircraft Specifications
- Funding Announcement
- Industry Perspective
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
The Knowledge
Metrolink Offers Fare-Free Rides for Earth Day 2026 Across Southern California
Metrolink offers fare-free rides for Earth Day 2026 across Southern California, encouraging sustainable travel and reduced emissions.
Last Updated on April 21, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Metrolink Offers Fare-Free Rides for Earth Day 2026
LOS ANGELES — April 22, 2026 — In a continued push toward sustainable transportation, Metrolink will once again offer systemwide free rides on Earth Day, inviting commuters and travelers to leave their cars behind and explore a cleaner way to move across the region.
A One-Day Opportunity to Ride Free
On Wednesday, April 22, passengers can board any Metrolink train — including the Arrow service — without purchasing a ticket. The initiative is part of the broader celebration of Earth Day, encouraging environmentally conscious travel choices.
The fare-free program is designed to appeal to both regular riders and first-time users, particularly those navigating Southern California’s persistent traffic congestion and rising fuel costs.
Encouraging Sustainable Travel Habits
“Earth Day is a reminder that small changes, like choosing public transit over driving one day a week, can have a meaningful impact on our environment,” said Doug Chaffee, chair of the Metrolink Board.
With gas prices continuing to strain household budgets, the agency hopes the initiative will inspire more residents to consider rail as part of their regular commute.
Regional Connections Expand Access
Metrolink’s Earth Day promotion aligns with similar efforts by other Southern California transit providers. Riders can seamlessly connect to services operated by: LA Metro and the Orange County Transportation Authority, Riverside County Transportation Commission, San Bernardino County Transportation Authority and Ventura County Transportation Commission.
These partnerships extend the reach of fare-free travel across a six-county region, making it easier for riders to explore destinations without relying on personal vehicles.
Service Adjustments and Rider Tips
Passengers should note that trains will operate on a reduced weekday schedule, implemented earlier this spring. Despite the adjustment, all Metrolink lines and station cities remain in service.
For those planning a trip:
- No ticket is required — simply board the train
- Bikes are welcome, with capacity ranging from three bikes per standard car to nine in designated bike cars
- A curated destination guide highlights attractions within walking or biking distance of stations
Environmental and Economic Impact
Metrolink is also promoting its Personal Impact Calculator, a digital tool that allows riders to estimate how switching from driving to rail can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower fuel expenses.
A Broader Trend in Public Transit
Fare-free transit days have gained traction nationwide as agencies look to boost ridership and promote sustainability. Southern California’s expansive commuter rail network makes it particularly well-suited for such initiatives, offering a viable alternative to one of the country’s most car-dependent regions.
Bottom Line
Metrolink’s Earth Day promotion is more than a one-day free ride — it’s a strategic effort to shift commuter behavior, reduce environmental impact, and showcase the convenience of regional rail. For Southern Californians, April 22 presents a low-risk opportunity to rethink how they travel.
Source: Metrolink
https://metrolinktrains.com/news/metrolink-goes-fare-free-for-earth-day-on-april-22
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
Science
New Glenn’s Third Mission Set for April 19 as Blue Origin Advances Commercial Space Capabilities
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Blue Origin has confirmed the launch window for the third mission of its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket, marking another step forward in the company’s expanding role in commercial spaceflight.
New Glenn’s Third Mission
Launch Details and Timeline
The mission is scheduled to lift off no earlier than Sunday, April 19, 2026, from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The two-hour launch window opens at 6:45 a.m. EDT (10:45 UTC) and closes at 8:45 a.m. EDT (12:45 UTC).
Viewers can follow the mission through a live webcast hosted by Blue Origin, beginning approximately 30 minutes before liftoff.
Mission Payload: Expanding Space-Based Connectivity
At the heart of the mission is the deployment of the BlueBird 7 satellite, developed by AST SpaceMobile. The satellite is designed to enhance a growing direct-to-smartphone broadband network, an emerging technology aimed at delivering connectivity to standard mobile devices without the need for ground-based towers.
BlueBird 7 will contribute to expanding network capacity and is expected to support initial service rollout plans targeted for 2026. The broader initiative reflects a significant shift in how satellite infrastructure could complement terrestrial telecom systems, particularly in underserved or remote regions.
Reusability Milestone: Booster Returns Again
A key feature of this mission is the planned reuse of New Glenn’s first-stage booster, “Never Tell Me The Odds.” The booster previously demonstrated a successful launch and landing during the rocket’s second mission in November, underscoring Blue Origin’s commitment to reusable rocket technology—a cornerstone of cost reduction and operational efficiency in modern spaceflight.
If successful, this mission will further validate the reliability of the New Glenn system and strengthen its competitiveness in a market increasingly shaped by reusable launch vehicles.
Industry Context: Competing in a Rapidly Evolving Market
The New Glenn program represents Blue Origin’s answer to heavy-lift launch demands, positioning the company alongside major players such as SpaceX. As satellite constellations grow in scale and ambition, reliable and cost-effective launch services have become a critical component of the global space economy.
The inclusion of commercial payloads like BlueBird 7 highlights the increasing collaboration between aerospace firms and telecommunications providers, signaling a future where space-based infrastructure plays a central role in everyday connectivity.
Looking Ahead
With its third mission, New Glenn continues to build momentum as a next-generation launch platform. The combination of reusable hardware, commercial partnerships, and advanced payload capabilities places this launch among the most closely watched developments in the 2026 spaceflight calendar.
For ongoing updates, mission tracking, and live coverage, audiences can follow Blue Origin across its digital platforms or visit its official website.
Source
Blue Origin Official Announcement – New Glenn Third Mission
Related External Links
- Learn More About Blue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket
- AST SpaceMobile – Space-Based Cellular Broadband Network
- Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Information
- NASA Overview of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Operations
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