tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191874177683981798.post9039211376081464428..comments2023-09-26T00:40:09.664-07:00Comments on The Image of Worcester: Ride the AIRLINE - The Backbone of Worcester's Future Public Transportation SystemEric K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02782135664063890616noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191874177683981798.post-16626466169744314052011-01-25T07:17:57.716-08:002011-01-25T07:17:57.716-08:00Eric, I'm surprised you're not getting mor...Eric, I'm surprised you're not getting more comments on the public transit posts. This was a major issue in Worcester about a decade ago and seems to have fallen off the map; it almost seems as if we have defered to the State on what a regional transportation master plan might look like. It's no surprise the State has moved forward on one of the touchstone issues--increased commuter rail service--with Murray in the State House, but no "smart growth" or comprehensive development strategy is going to work without an equally comprehensive transportation plan that addresses specific local needs. There needs to be a collective effort to reduce the number of cars on the road and increase ridership, biking walking and perhaps light rail. In my eyes this should be a policy and operational imperative. The WRTA has made some some very obvious improvements to their fleet, but I don't think it's made much of dent in the habits of Worcester residents. You're right to be focusing so much attention on this issue, because along with major infrastructure and educational improvements, transportaion is among the most important components of a liveable city that have profound effects for both the existing residents and the way prospective residents view us.Jim McKeagnoreply@blogger.com