After we clarify that CIRTA is not a mattress company, folks unfamiliar with us often ask what we do. My first response is to say that we’re developing a system of transit alternatives for the Central Indiana region. Their blank stares prompt me to add, “You know: commuter rail, busses, carpooling, sidewalks … all that stuff.”
That usually does the trick. In fact, at that point, most folks are interested enough to ask, “So, what do we need to do to build this system?” My answer is always the same: “Four things.”
1. Create a regional transit vision. CIRTA isn’t looking at only one route, mode or community … we’re working with area planners and business and community leaders to develop a regional transit vision. Soon we’ll share that vision and work through a public involvement process to build consensus and understanding of our long-range vision – a vision in which bus and rail work in concert with improved sidewalks and trails for pedestrians, increased capacity for rural/on-demand transit providers, and expanded rideshare programs for car and van pooling.
2. Create the organization to implement that vision. While CIRTA, a coalition of county and local governments, is leading the charge on regional transit, a number of other Central Indiana entities also are getting involved, including three metropolitan planning organizations, 10 rural on-demand transit providers, three bus companies, one ride-share program, and a regional transportation authority. These entities work well together, but it makes you wonder: Is this conglomeration the best way to deliver a regional transit system? Is there a better model?
3. Figure out how to pay for building and operating this vision. Regardless of what the final vision is, we need to assess our opportunities for transit funding and get the policy in place to make it a reality. In other regions, this requires a mix of local, state and federal funds. Certainly, there’s room for public-private options, but all systems require some kind of public investment.
4. Build and successfully operate the northeast corridor rail line. Nothing says, “We can do this!” like actually getting it done, and done well. Central Indiana hasn’t made a significant investment in transit in decades. The first leg of a regional commuter rail system will kick us into high gear. Now we’re in the environmental documentation phase for the northeast corridor line; it should last about a year. Then we’ll get into funding and design, with a goal of construction in 2012. It won’t be easy, and it won’t be a perfect process, but we must get this first line built.
This is our action plan. It won’t happen in a vacuum. It requires new partners and energy, fresh ways of thinking, and a commitment to doing what’s best for the long-term good of our community.
2 comments:
when is the mayor's task force report killing mass transit and promoting lots more paved lane miles actually going to be released?
I offer caution and optimism regarding the transit task force. They anticipated delivering their findings in July, but continue to work and refine. Let's give this group the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps the delay is a result of findings for transit in the long run.
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