Public transportation is important for those who do not drive. As a disabled person, increasing safety and availability of mass transportation is vital. The rapidly developing housing in Clark County is outpacing access to buses, due to limited routes. I also would like to see investment in a light-rail system that would enable options aside from bus routes.
Clark County houses multiple towns, but the connections between the towns via mass transit creates a disconnect. It is difficult to travel to employment and to handle essential activities without strong transit availability. As an example, it takes me over 45 minutes to travel to a location 2 miles from where I live. The schedule creates a long waiting period in between buses. Often there are no shelters, just a bus stop sign.
Our legislators in Olympia need to invest in transit service statewide, just like they invest currently in roads. This will improve employment opportunities, access to healthy lifestyles and shopping options. The Joint Transportation Committee estimated this would cost between $10 billion and $15 billion over the next 10 years. But this investment will aid in tax revenue. It will create a more vibrant community in Clark County. I encourage lawmakers to use mass transit for a week, and then you’ll realize what an important service this provides in our communities.
