A recent
survey suggests Torontonians -- and not just transit users -- would
agree to pay a yearly $5 fee to improve public transit. At the same
time, a majority polled across the city last week opposed funding
TTC improvements by increasing the fare by 10 cents.
While many
support better transit service, who will make it happen? Politicians
sometimes lead the way, but often it is members of the public who
take the time to propose a plan, and then get officials on side.
The catch is
that sometimes those same pro-transit advocates are also critical of
day-to-day service, making it trickier to gain the support of those
who run the buses and trains. When transit officials and riders do
manage to combine forces, the effect can be dramatic.
Many of the new
light rail projects across the United States have been built
because local volunteers helped gather public support and lobbied
politicians at all levels.
Transit use in
greater Toronto is growing, but the percentage of commuters who
drive to work is increasing at a faster rate. Without a lot more new
service, transit will actually lose market share to cars --
increasing congestion and smog.
As if appearing
at just the right time, a U.S.-based organization in favour of
improving passenger trains and public transit is coming to Toronto.
The Rail Users’ Network (RUN) conference on November 12 and 13 will
bring together advocates and representatives of train and transit
systems from Canada, the U.S. and Great Britain.
Without a high
level of cooperation, most cities can expect only gradual increases
in bus, streetcar, subway and train service. Good intentions and
favourable public sentiment won’t give people real options to
driving -- especially in the suburbs and between cities.
Speakers will
be on hand from Via Rail, Amtrak and a leading British train
company. The conference will also bring together representatives of
rider councils -- rail and transit users who officially monitor
customer service.
There should
also be a good debate on whether cities should be building more
bus-only lanes or light rail. Officials are expected from transport
agencies in Los Angeles, San Diego and elsewhere.
Richard
Rudolph, who chairs the Rail Users' Network, says the two-day
meeting will allow advocates to interact with those responsible for
customer service in transit and rail organizations.
Toronto’s
transit system has suffered from too little attention, but is still
admired by international observers. Canadian, British and American
experts can learn from each others’ successes and failures, which
could lead to a widespread push for more funds and more service here
at home, and abroad.
I’ve been
helping arrange some free events and transit tours for those here in
Toronto who would like to meet the attendees. For details, look up
“Transit Forum” at
www.groups.yahoo.com.
For readers of
this column, RUN has agreed to extend the $150 US preregistration
price until the end of today. Visit
www.railusers.net, email
rrudolph@pivot.net or call
207-776-4961.