Comment Log Display

Success in meeting California GHG reduction transportation goals
requires more than low emission vehicles.  One objective should be
a public transit system that truly meets the public needs and
provides an acceptable substitute for individual vehicle use.  A
system which is not overcrowded, seamlessly integrates across
geographic areas, and which operates during the hours that users
need.  In return for receipt of greenhouse gas reduction funds,
transportation districts should be required to make commitments for
integration in regional transportation systems and be held
accountable for specific improvements in public service.
  
GHG Reduction Fund investments should also be directed to
communication campaigns to educate the public that public transit
is a public good; one doesn’t expect to pay to use a building
elevator—why not consider a viable public transit system in the
same way.  Public transit is necessary for municipal areas to
function, especially with the urgent need to decrease use of
internal combustion engines.  The cost should be covered from
public funds, including GHG Reduction Funds, and there should be no
expectation that fares will be sufficient.
  
Innovation funds could be used to encourage pilots of use of
autonomous vehicles to address the “last mile problem" in improving
public transit systems.