David Zipper

Join D.C. City Council member Charles Allen, a passionate advocate for free public transit, and David Zipper, a scholar on urban planning from Harvard. They dive into the current crisis facing public transport, discussing how free fares could boost equity and ridership. The duo explores financial challenges, the need for reliable service, and the vital role of transit for essential workers. With an optimistic yet cautious approach, they tackle community concerns and the ambitious push for a fare-free future in Washington, D.C.

David Zipper, a visiting Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School, discusses the controversies surrounding CLEAR, a biometric security screening service that bypasses airport security lines. Topics include the fairness of a private company inserting itself in a public process, the impact on disadvantaged groups, and the undermining of trust in government.

In this discussion, Stephen Wasslander, Director of the Toronto Robotics and AI Laboratory, explores the challenges and innovations of Waymo's robotaxis, especially in winter conditions. He shares insights on sensor technology and safety records, addressing common concerns about incident transparency. David Zipper, a Senior fellow at MIT, warns that while robotaxis offer the potential for reduced parking needs, they may inadvertently increase congestion. Both guests advocate for clear regulations and proactive policies to manage the impact of this transformative technology on urban life.

Transportation analyst David Zipper discusses the flaws of the 85th percentile rule in setting speed limits, the need to challenge car culture and prioritize road safety, the evolving coverage of transportation issues in mainstream media, the benefits of using golf carts as alternative transportation, and the resistance of the car industry to investing in safety improvements.

David Zipper, a Senior Fellow at the MIT Mobility Initiative specializing in transportation policy, shares insights on the paradox of highway expansion in America. He discusses how building more highways ironically leads to increased traffic and advocates for rethinking urban infrastructure. Zipper delves into the historical background of the highway system, its social impacts on communities, and the financial dynamics shaping current projects. He emphasizes the need for alternative transportation solutions to create a more equitable and sustainable future.