Yes! Weekly has its candidates survey in this week’s edition and, of the 10 questions posed, the most intersting (in my mind) was the second, which asked candidates how they would “prioritize the following transportation projects: New roads, increased bus service, more bicycle facilities, and light rail.”
I was pleased to see that the candidates seem to have their heads on straight with regard to light rail, including enviro-candidate Joel Landau, although the remainder of his response had left quite a bit to be desired:
First, improve bus service. This will have the greatest immediate impact to reduce air pollution, and benefit the most people right away. Simultaneously, prioritize improving bicycle facilities to make this a viable transportation option (see joellandau.com for specific suggestions). Light rail is a great goal, but is too expensive short-term. Last is new roads. New roads usually destroy habitat and tree canopy, and lead to sprawl and increased automotive use, and hence more air pollution.
From my perspective, at-large candidate Bill Knight provided the best answer:
New roads, increased bus services, bicycle, rail. a) New roads and improvement to existing roads are a priority matter for Greensboro and the Triad. New areas east and northeast of the city have been annexed, bringing in hundreds of new residential dwellers who commute to jobs throughout the Triad. Development in the airport/FedEx area requires substantial improvement to existing roads and some new construction. Fortunately, much of this has already been addressed by the new outer loop (Painter Blvd.) and other connecting roads. Roadways to accommodate increased traffic into downtown Greensboro must continue to be improved, e.g. Friendly Avenue and Lee Street. 2)
The city budget and finance department project 4 million bus riders this year. The current bus fleet should handle this capacity. For the future the GTA should focus on improved routing and efficient use of personnel during periods of low ridership. 3) Bicycle facilities are adequate until increased use indicates a need for further consideration. Bike routes have been marked along a number of streets and so far the usage is negligible. 4) Light rail for the Triad should remain on the planning table, but may not be a viable option for the foreseeable future. The high cost of construction and upkeep, combined with the amount of expected use do not warrant construction of a rail system. We need to remember that, like the bus system, rail passenger fares will not be sufficient to cover costs. Uncovered costs will have to be funded by taxpayer support through increased property taxes or fees. We must try to live within our means, but continue to monitor growth and whether such a system is becoming viable.
It’s not often that we hear such a clear and concise explanation of the costs associated with public transportation.
