NYC Lost a Legend: Brian Ketcham, the Automotive Engineer Who Fought for Clean Air and Congestion Pricing

Brian Ketcham, Automotive Engineer Who Subverted Car Culture, 85

New York City has lost a giant: Brian Ketcham, a renowned engineer, clean air pioneer, and champion of mass transit, passed away recently at the age of 85.

Ketcham's legacy is marked by a lifetime dedicated to combating pollution, advocating for justice, and promoting congestion pricing. He was a vocal critic of car culture and a passionate supporter of sustainable transportation solutions.

A Pioneer in Clean Air and Transportation

Ketcham's work began in the 1960s, when he joined the Bureau of Air Resources in New York City, where he played a crucial role in establishing a Motor Pollution Control group and building the nation's first automotive-emissions testing station.

His research revealed the detrimental effects of car exhaust and led him to propose a comprehensive Transportation Control Plan in 1973, which included congestion pricing for entering Manhattan. Though the plan faced resistance, it established the concept of congestion pricing in public discourse, paving the way for its eventual implementation in recent years.

The Fight Against Westway

Ketcham's unwavering opposition to the Westway project, a proposed superhighway that would have severely impacted the environment and traffic, cemented his status as a champion of urban planning. He exposed the project's flawed logic, emphasizing the detrimental effects of induced traffic, and rallied public support against it, eventually contributing to its demise.

A Legacy of Advocacy and Innovation

Ketcham was a co-founder of Transportation Alternatives, a leading advocacy organization dedicated to promoting cycling and pedestrian-friendly urban environments. He also played a pivotal role in establishing the Tri-State Transportation Campaign.

Ketcham's work had a profound impact on transportation policy and advocacy in the U.S., inspiring a new generation of advocates to fight for sustainable and equitable transportation solutions.

A Personal Life Dedicated to Fighting for a Better City

Beyond his professional achievements, Ketcham was also known for his deeply personal commitment to fighting for a better city. He and his partner, Carolyn Konheim, co-founder of Citizens for Clean Air, shared a passion for improving urban life and challenged powerful forces to create a more sustainable and equitable environment.

Their work, often marked by professional and personal sacrifices, left an enduring mark on New York City and its residents.

Ketcham's passing is a significant loss for the city, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.