You need to talk about the present state of public transit in Baltimore.
Yesterday I rode a bus with no sign so the operator had to announce the
number and destination verbally at each stop. Also the bus rattled as the
shocks were apparently shot.
The buses also need to run on time. The number 8 buses out of Hunt Valley
seem to run in groups so that when one finally does arrive people crowd on
because who knows when the next one is coming. Sometimes the number 11 out
of Goucher seems to disappear.
Despite this, Baltimore transit riders are notable for their patience and
courtesy. And as I frequently remark to operators, "I don't know how much
you're paid, but it's not enough."
Part of the problem is a matter of lax administration, I think. Part is
undoubtedly due to funding. I know Governor Ehrlich ran on a platform of no
NEW taxes, but think he would be better advised to see about RIGHT taxes. He
should talk to State Comptroller William Donald Schaefer about the tax
reforms Schaefer attempted to get passed when he was Governor. For
suggestions in detail, see THE WASHINGTON POST editorial "Maryland Tax
Truths" of August 21.
If Mussolini could get the Italian trains to run on time cannot Ehrlich do
the same for Baltimore buses?
(In effort to promote public discussion, I am sharing this message with my
Emailing list and am also posting it on my Weblog.)
Posted by allan366
at 10:57 AM EDT
