As a member of the Sustainable Transportation Coalition, I’d urge people to let their mayors know by the vote on October 7 that there’s support for the funding package – gas and property tax increases (if no other option is ageed on) – to provide for the Evergreen Line and, just as importantly, transit improvements south of the Fraser – particularly a frequent bus service across the Port Mann Bridge (something always pointed to by Gateway advocates but never actually funded in the project).
This is what distinguishes our region: we have been prepared to pay for the projects and services that fulfil the vision we have laid out in our plans.
.
COALITION URGES MAYORS TO SUPPORT TRANSIT FUNDING
September 12, 2011
Over the next weeks, discussions critical to the future of transportation in the region will occurring leading up to a vote by the Mayors Council on funding for TransLink’s “Moving Forward” plan. We urge regional leaders seize this opportunity to further build consensus on the urgent need for funding sufficient to met the needs of a growing region and economy.
The “Moving Forward” plan includes the Evergreen Line; Rapid Bus connecting Langley, Surrey and Burnaby; improved bus service all around the region; and funding for roads and cycling. The STC supports funding critical transportation improvements through means other than property taxes. Preferred funding options include road pricing, vehicle levies and carbon tax revenue.
With transit ridership reaching record levels this year following the very successful 2010 Olympic Games, this investment is badly needed to met the rapidly growing demand and ensure the competitiveness of our regional and national economy. Building the Evergreen Line and the other measures in the “Moving Forward” package will also provide many jobs and give people all over the region more affordable transportation options.
The Sustainable Transportation Coalition is a non-partisan alliance dedicated to building support for the long-term funding solutions required for the improved transportation choices including transit, walking and cycling that will create a more livable and economically vibrant region. Coalition members include BC & the Yukon – Architecture Canada, Better Environmentally Sound Transportation, Modo The Car Co-op, the South Coast Chapter – Planning Institute of BC, South Fraser OnTrax, Third Wave Cycling Group and Voters Taking Action on Climate Change.
When is the vote by the Mayors Council set to occur?