Invest in public transportation

Posted

July, 2014 marks the fiftieth anniversary of federal government support for public transportation.

The success of public transportation can be traced back to one of President Lyndon Johnson’s greatest accomplishments — one which continues benefiting many Americans today.

On July 10, 1964 he signed the “Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964” into law.  This has resulted in the investment, over time, of several hundred billion dollars into public transportation. 

Millions of Americans, including many residing in Riverdale and other Bronx neighborhoods, utilize various public transportation alternatives on a daily basis.  They include local and express buses, ferries, jitneys, light rail, subway and commuter rail services.   

All of these systems use less fuel and move far more people than conventional single occupancy vehicles. Most of these systems are funded with your tax dollars thanks to President Johnson.

Depending upon where you live, consider the public transportation alternative. Try riding a local or express bus, commuter van, ferry, light rail, commuter rail or subway. 

Fortunately we have the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and its various operating agencies, including New York City Transit subways and buses, the Long Island Rail Road, Metro North, Staten Island Rapid Transit Authority and MTA Buses.

There is also New Jersey Transit (NJT), the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PATH) and the New York City Department of Transportation’s (NYCDOT) Staten Island Ferry. 

Using MTA Metro Cards provides free transfers between the subways and buses. This has eliminated the old two fare zones making public transportation an even better bargain. Purchasing a monthly Metro North or MTA subway/bus pass reduces the cost per ride and provides virtually unlimited trips.

In many cases, employers can offer transit checks which help subsidize a portion of the costs.  Utilize this and reap the benefits.    

Many employers now allow employees to telecommute and work from home.  Others use alternative work schedules, which afford staff the ability to avoid rush hour gridlock. This saves travel time and can improve mileage per gallon. Join a car or van pool to share the costs of commuting.  

The ability to travel from home to workplace, school, shopping, entertainment, medical, library etc. is a factor when moving to a new neighborhood. Economically successful communities are not 100 percent dependent on automobiles as the sole means of mobility.  Seniors, students, low and middle income people need these transportation alternatives. Investment in public transportation today contributes to economic growth, employment and a stronger economy. Dollar for dollar, it is one of the best investments we can make.

Larry Penner is a Riverdale area resident. Point of view is a column open to all.

Larry Penner, public transportation, MTA, Point of view

Comments