We give GCRTA and the ATU kudos.....

 

http://allaboardohio.org/2012/04/18/cleveland-rta-innovates-new-labor-deal/

 

Cleveland RTA innovates new labor deal

 

In what appears to be the first such labor agreement in the U.S. transit industry, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority’s (GCRTA) board of trustees approved on April 16 an innovative labor agreement tied to the agency’s revenues. The agreement is with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 268, which represents 1,700 out of GCRTA’s 2,300 employees.

 

The ATU approved the deal on April 3. Under the agreement, eligible ATU members will receive a 3 percent wage increase, consistent with an increase in GCRTA revenue earned between 2010 and 2011, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2012.

 

In February 2013, ATU members could receive a wage increase of up to 3 percent based on GCRTA’s realized revenue increase between 2012 and 2013; in February 2014, workers could receive a wage increase of up to 3 percent based on the agency’s realized increase in revenue between 2012 and 2013. No wage increases will be awarded if revenue does not increase, according to a written statement by GCRTA.

 

Members also will increase their contributions toward health insurance and copayments, and will receive credits for healthy lifestyle activities such as being a nonsmoker and getting annual physicals.

 

“This is a landmark agreement which protects taxpayers and riders if revenues do not grow,” said All Aboard Ohio Executive Director Ken Prendergast. “During the Great Recession, the decline in GCRTA revenues forced deep cuts in transit services, some of which might have been avoided if the new agreement was in place then.”

 

According to GCRTA, nearly two-thirds of its riders use buses and trains to get to work. So when transit service is lost, it makes it very difficult for many workers to get to their jobs.

 

“Having more transit improves economic conditions by expanding access to opportunities,” Prendergast said. “I’m hopeful this agreement will allow for cost-effective service expansions, more ridership and more economic growth in the service area of Ohio’s largest public transit agency.”

 

END

I'm more inclined to give the ATU more credit than RTA.  Sounds like the union gets it re the fragility of transit finances in the current econmy, particularly in view of RTA's existence within such a stingy state, ... transit-wise, that is.  If one were tied to Ohio's road building/maintence industry, she'd/he'd be living la vida loca.

Jerry, do you know when RTA plans to reinstate the 15-minute base Red Line frequencies which the agency promised late last year?

RTA, regional transit systems seeing renewed demand from riders

Published: Wednesday, April 18, 2012, 8:00 PM    Updated: Thursday, April 19, 2012, 6:27 AM

 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- More jobs, high gas prices and St. Patrick's Day have been a fruitful mix for RTA.

 

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority has seen rides grow for 12 straight months, compared to the same month a year before.

 

Rides surged to 4.3 million in March, RTA reported this week. That's a 5.3 percent increase over March 2010 and in keeping with a national trend – more people are opting for buses and rail.

 

Last year, transit agencies across the country delivered 10.4 billion rides. That was the highest since 2008, when gas topped $4 a gallon, the American Public Transportation Association reported.

 

 

http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2012/04/post_5.html

When does RTA plans to reinstate the 15-minute base Red Line frequencies which the agency promised late last year?

 

The service plan calls for the increased frequency to begin as soon as repairs to the signal system are finalized, perhaps this summer. The demand is there, so we will begin as soon as all safety factors are in place. Thanks for asking.

Another upbeat story on local transit:

 

http://freshwatercleveland.com/features/allaboardtherta041912.aspx

 

When does RTA plans to reinstate the 15-minute base Red Line frequencies which the agency promised late last year?

 

The service plan calls for the increased frequency to begin as soon as repairs to the signal system are finalized, perhaps this summer. The demand is there, so we will begin as soon as all safety factors are in place. Thanks for asking.

 

Thanks Jerry.

MyTwoSense had two questions:

 

Q1. Fare Machines:  Disappointment is putting it mildy.  Why so long?  Aren't there some provisions in our contract?

A1: In a contract for a project of this size, there are many provisions. I am not a lawyer, and have not been involved in the negotiations. There's not much more that I can say. We appreciate your support. We are doing everything possible to move things along.

 

Q2. Rock-n-Roll Festivities:  Why wasn't this rolled out at train stations especially the airport?  A space that had direct tie-ins?  The airport, Windermere, University Circle, W117, Ohio City and Tower City should have had key people dressed up.  This was the perfect opportunity to introduce those to our system and to show others what an asset the rail system is.

A2: You are entitled to your opinion, of course, but from where we (RTA) sit, this was one of our more successful promotions in recent years. The media coverage was huge, and the reaction of our riders was wonderful. The Rock Hall is downtown, many of the affected hotels are downtown, and most of the out-of-town visitors came to see the Rock Hall. From our point of view, downtown was the perfect place for this promotion, and trolleys are uniquely downtown. RTA has no staff at the Airport. If you think the Airport staff should have dressed up, send them a note. These operators volunteered to go this -- and that's the way it should be. You can't order someone to dress up -- the man who played KISS spent 45 minutes to get into his garb. The induction comes around again in 3 more years, and I'm sure we will do something unique.

 

 

Jerry I think you're misunderstood my second question and my thoughts.  Considering I had a personal and profession interest in the events that took place last weekend.  I'm sure what you wrote was condensed, but it seems like RTA did not look at the bigger overall picture. 

 

Q2.  The airport is a direct link to TC and downtown.  I'm not ordering someone to dress up.  I'm saying RTA had no presence at the Airport or major connecting stations that hyped the RRHOF celebrations.  If there was one rail station that should have been staffed (with actual employees or volunteers), the airport should have!

 

These are just some options that could have been put into play:

• RTA could have worked with the airport and airlines to have RTA information printed on online tickets or show mobile devices once a person has checked in.  And even had Airline staff announce "ground transportation" options for each arriving flight or over the entire airport at 10 min. intervals.
  
• RTA, the airport, RRHOF & downtown hotels could have had employees/volunteers on each concourse giving out maps of downtown and how to get downtown via public transportation.  That is a no cost, high visibility.  The map could have had hotels, restaurants, bars and other useful information.
  
• Working with the RRHOF and local artists, various train stations could have had RRHOF facts about this years inductees - that alone might have gotten people to ride to the stations just to see the installations.  Or each station could have been mocked up various artist already in the RRHOF.
  
• The airport is a high visibility location, yet RTA doesn't staff it, but that is a whole 'nother issue.  For this one weekend, the cost to staff could have outweight the greater good for the agency.
  

In regard to those dressing up, you could have simply asked employees at other locations if they wanted to do this.  The airport station should be a focal point.

http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2012/04/post_6.html

 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- RTA's East Side rapid lines will be replaced by shuttle buses Saturday and Sunday because of work related to construction of the new Inner Belt Bridge. The closing affects rail service headed east out of Tower City on the Red, Blue and Green lines, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority said. Riders can catch buses downtown at Euclid Avenue and Ontario Street, in front of the former Higbee's department store.

---

 

I dont understand why all train stations need to be shut down.

 

Electricity needs to be cut in Shaker because the section near the construction is affected?

 

Couldn't RTA run trains to East 55 and have riders connect with shuttle busses there?

 

http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2012/04/post_6.html

 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- RTA's East Side rapid lines will be replaced by shuttle buses Saturday and Sunday because of work related to construction of the new Inner Belt Bridge. The closing affects rail service headed east out of Tower City on the Red, Blue and Green lines, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority said. Riders can catch buses downtown at Euclid Avenue and Ontario Street, in front of the former Higbee's department store.

---

 

I dont understand why all train stations need to be shut down.

 

Electricity needs to be cut in Shaker because the section near the construction is affected?

 

Couldn't RTA run trains to East 55 and have riders connect with shuttle busses there?

 

 

Whoa...this is terrible...all stations all weekend???

Whoa...this is terrible...all stations all weekend???

 

Yes, same as last October.

CASE NO. 1 -- 2 months ago, ODOT decided to hoist the support the support beams into place for the new Warrensville Road bridge over I-480.  WIDTH? The bridge spans a total of 11 lanes (8 highway + 3 marginal entrance/exit access road lanes on either side of 480, 2 westbound (entrance), 1 eastbound (exit)... In order to move the massive beams from their setup positions on the side of 480, ODOT decided to close 480.  I-480 CLOSURE TIME: from 11p on a Wed. night, to 6a the next (Thursday) morning.

 

CASE NO. 2. ODOT must move new Innerbelt bridge beams into place over the trunk mainline of the RTA eastside Rapid which carries the Red, Blue and Green Lines.  WIDTH?  2 tracks whose track bed is about as wide as 2 lanes of highway, probably less (each Rapid railroad track is 4 feet 8 1/2 inches wide -- the worldwide railroad standard width).  CLOSURE TIME?  RTA chooses to close the entire East Side Rapid division for the entire weekend from day's end Friday, 4/20, to early morning Monday, 4/23. 

 

QUESTION: is there something wrong with this picture?

^I think you're getting at prioritization, or rather misprioritization.

 

I wonder if they did it quicker because 480 is used by more people maybe? I know that is like the first or second busiest highway in the state.

CASE NO. 1 -- 2 months ago, ODOT decided to hoist the support the support beams into place for the new Warrensville Road bridge over I-480.  WIDTH? The bridge spans a total of 11 lanes (8 highway + 3 marginal entrance/exit access road lanes on either side of 480, 2 westbound (entrance), 1 eastbound (exit)... In order to move the massive beams from their setup positions on the side of 480, ODOT decided to close 480.  I-480 CLOSURE TIME: from 11p on a Wed. night, to 6a the next (Thursday) morning.

 

CASE NO. 2. ODOT must move new Innerbelt bridge beams into place over the trunk mainline of the RTA eastside Rapid which carries the Red, Blue and Green Lines.  WIDTH?  2 tracks whose track bed is about as wide as 2 lanes of highway, probably less (each Rapid railroad track is 4 feet 8 1/2 inches wide -- the worldwide railroad standard width).  CLOSURE TIME?  RTA chooses to close the entire East Side Rapid division for the entire weekend from day's end Friday, 4/20, to early morning Monday, 4/23. 

 

QUESTION: is there something wrong with this picture?

 

Agree.  As I asked earlier, why can't trains run to 55 Street.  They can use the rail yard as a turn around for both trains systems.  RTA has some real explaining to do. 

^I think you're getting at prioritization, or rather misprioritization.

 

I wonder if they did it quicker because 480 is used by more people maybe? I know that is like the first or second busiest highway in the state.

 

I'm sure that had someting to do with the thinking.  But still, if the work can be done that quickly, which obviously it can, it's inexcusable for your transit agency to not demand that kind of quickness in order to keep disruption to its rail lines at a minimum.

I wonder if RTA will be incurring added costs for these rail line closures, substitute bus services, overtime, fuel, etc. If so, I also wonder if ODOT is reimbursing RTA for those costs?

As I asked earlier, why can't trains run to 55 Street.  They can use the rail yard as a turn around for both trains systems.  RTA has some real explaining to do. 

 

I'm guessing most (though certainly not all) east side riders are traveling between downtown and points east, so running shuttle buses from public square at least provides a one-seat ride.  Just my opinion, but as a rider, I'd prefer this to having to switch modes part way through my journey.

seems like every other week they shut down the blue/green line. pretty sure it was closed a couple weeks ago.

 

 

seems like every other week they shut down the blue/green line. pretty sure it was closed a couple weeks ago.

 

 

You're correct on both counts.  The Blue Line was closed a month ago because a grade crossing at Van Aken junction (Shaker Blvd eastbound), was replaced; and even this seems an emergency/rush job compared to other grade crossing replacements. (and this particular closure was from Friday night through Tuesday morning -- I'm no construction expert, but that seems like an especially long time to complete a seemingly straightforward construction project) ... I agree with you, it seems that RTA shuts down Rapid service, esp Blue & Green Line service, frequently.  And like the aforementioned Blue Line closure, these often occur during the Cleveland International Film Festival (with CIFF officials publicly griping about it the last time RTA shut down the rail lines during the festival); in recent years, Blue & Green Line service has been closed due to "track work".... And even though RTA doesn't control the Plain Dealer, it was disheartening to see a tiny article about the shutdown in yesterday's PD at the bottom of page B7... across from the obits ... the day before the closures!

 

Transit riders a disrespected populace, no?

Track work does not need to close down the lines, as one track can be worked on at a time with the other track left in operation. But as I've said before, RTA doesn't trust single-track operation. If the single-tracking can be done at a location (such as between nearby crossovers) where it doesn't cause a reduction in frequency or on-time performance, then that's something RTA should do. But if its not, then buses may be the better option to provide frequent service even if its slower and forces a transfer.

 

I would like to hear RTA's explanation why shuttle buses between East 55th to Tower City weren't the preferred option. And I would also like to hear if the ODOT work is costing RTA extra. If so, how much is it, and is ODOT reimbursing RTA for the costs.

^Good points.  I'd like to hear RTA's POV as well.

Track work does not need to close down the lines, as one track can be worked on at a time with the other track left in operation. But as I've said before, RTA doesn't trust single-track operation. If the single-tracking can be done at a location (such as between nearby crossovers) where it doesn't cause a reduction in frequency or on-time performance, then that's something RTA should do. But if its not, then buses may be the better option to provide frequent service even if its slower and forces a transfer.

 

I would like to hear RTA's explanation why shuttle buses between East 55th to Tower City weren't the preferred option. And I would also like to hear if the ODOT work is costing RTA extra. If so, how much is it, and is ODOT reimbursing RTA for the costs.

 

EXACTLY!

Good morning!

 

This is in response to posters who have questions about the rail shutdown. Excuse the numbering system, but it helps me to place the order of things.

 

1. ODOT approaches RTA with a request to close the tracks, so huge pieces of steel could be moved safely over our right-of-way.

 

2. RTA agrees, as safety is the overriding issue here.

 

3. To minimize the number of riders affected, RTA chooses a weekend when no major activities, such as St. Patrick's Day or a Browns game, are scheduled. This is always a concern. In a city this size, there are events virtually every weekend, and the closure has to be done sometime. We realize that someone will be affected, no matter what weekend is chosen. We also have to look at alternatives, as in, "If we don't shut down this weekend, then we have to shutdown next weekend, and that is the Indians home opener. We can't shut down then, so we better shut down now." You certainly have the right to disagree, but please know that the shutdown dates are chosen after carefully viewing the special events calendar.

 

4. RTA decides to use a one-seat, no-transfer option, as that is the most convenient for riders. We are already asking them to switch from bus to rail. To ask them to also transfer would be an additional inconvenience.

 

5. Whenever the track is closed for ANY reason, RTA crews take advanatage of the time to perform other necessary track maintenance.

 

I do not know if RTA bills the State of Ohio for the extra expense, if there is any. In the end, the taxpayer pays for everything. RTA and ODOT are partners on many projects.

 

In closing, may I kindly ask people to pose their questions with "a wee bit of respect." The husband who stays out all night carousing and comes home with lipstick on his collar "has some explaining to do." A transit agency that makes decisions to ensure public safety and minimize rider inconvenience does not.

 

But we do anyways. That's why we are here. Have a great day.

Thanks Jerry. I appreciate you taking the time to answer questions here, even when they are missing the kind of tact people usually use in face-to-face conversations.

 

EDIT: I ask the question about ODOT because, even though ODOT and RTA are both funded by taxpayers, the actions of ODOT can and do negatively impact the fiscal condition of RTA and its ability to serve its customers. They do not share the same balance sheet.

Is anyone else concerned about the new trolley lines? They are getting all muddled up with odd times and routes. I've seen the detailed maps with hours of operation. They frighten me.

 

9/12 Line: Runs during rush hour on weekdays from the Muni Lot to the Q? Supposed to be for downtown commuters. By the way, I hate the Nine-Twelve name. I know it is E.9th and E.12th, but can we just use the original Erieview name? Nine-Twelve sounds like some kind of allusion to Nine-Eleven. Seems like the B-Line route should just be adjusted to achieve whatever is trying to be done here.

 

Lakefront Line: Runs on weekend days. Supposed to be for visitors and local tourists to connect them with Tower City to Northcoast Harbor Attractions. Seems a little silly when the Waterfront Rapid line does exactly this. Or you could extend the B-Line service to weekends. Why not just rename the B-Line the L-Line (for the lakefront and lakeside avenue) and have it run both weekdays and weekends?

 

Casino Line: Runs on both weekdays and weekends late into evenings, connecting Playhouse Square, the Casino and the Warehouse District. Absolutely absurd. Just keep the E-Line and Extend hours of operation!

"Lakefront Line: Runs on weekend days. Supposed to be for visitors and local tourists to connect them with Tower City to Northcoast Harbor Attractions. Seems a little silly when the Waterfront Rapid line does exactly this."

 

Exactly!  This makes even less sense when you consider that RTA cut Waterfront Line service due to lack of funds to cover low ridership.  And now you want to duplicate this service with a street-running bus just because the casino is coming on line -- with, er, the same Waterfront Line service leaving from, essentially, the basement of the casino... Also consider the superior connectability of the WFL once the Flats East Bank comes on line: connecting 3 trip-generating nodes by train in about 8 minutes... It's almost as if we're fulfilling the self-fulfilling prophecy of WFL failure... But wait, RTA did say regular, 7-day/week WFL service will return once FEB completed.  That's the good news; and it'll be even better if RTA runs alternating Blue and Green Line trains over the WFL to give the line (at least) 15-min interval service throughout the day...

 

It remains to be seen. 

 

 

The only reason I would think a Lakefront line for visitors would make sense is if they wanted to to stop at all the hotels. The problem is that their proposal does not do that. Their proposal is actually pretty terrible in my opinion.

 

I would prefer a route more similar to this. It stops at almost all Downtown Hotels, as well as most of downtowns attractions.

 

http://g.co/maps/v8azb

Cross-posted from the general Cleveland developments thread......

 

Downtown Cleveland parking tightens up due to casino, other projects, but experts see no shortage

Published: Saturday, April 28, 2012, 6:00 AM    Updated: Saturday, April 28, 2012, 9:20 AM

  By Michelle Jarboe McFee, The Plain Dealer

 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- To an urban casino, a new convention center and other Cleveland projects, add one more downtown development: It won't be as easy, or affordable, to find parking next door to your destination.

 

In a downtown replete with parking -- 56,000 or so spaces -- major operators aren't predicting a shortage.

 

Still, new attractions, more housing and a few additional office tenants promise to boost occupancy at parking facilities. Higher demand, plus the glitz of a new casino on Public Square, already are pushing rates up in some parts of a downtown that has grown comfortable with cheap parking.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/downtown_cleveland_parking_tig.html

Does anyone know if RTA will be announcing plans to overhaul or at least renovate the red line trains like they did to the blue/green line? The trains imo are past their shelf life and pushing 30 years old, I feel that the red line could use some new and innovative styled trains. This is necessary in my opinion because of all this new life being put into the east side along with these new rapid stations it would be nice to have new trains to go with it.

 

Out of curiosity, is RTA or the city of Shaker Heights responsible for maintaining the Shaker and Green rapid station?  I feel since Shaker is the one that writes tickets and makes money off overnight parkers it should be their responsibility.

 

I've been wondering because there has been glass scattered in one of the parking spots for about 6 weeks now and I imagine the Shaker police have passed it numerous timesaver done nothing. The stairwell on the north side also hasn't been lit for just as long.

 

Please note I'm not complaining, just wondering and pointing things out :-)

^years ago I noticed graffiti at the Green Rd. station.  I sent an e mail to the current mayor (I think she might have also been on the RTA board at the time).  It was quickly taken care of.

^I do know, down the street, there has been a major dispute btw Shaker and RTA regarding the eyesore stairs and canopy at the Shaker-Warrensville station.  The stairs were in such disrepair, they have been replaced by sloping walkways from the corners of the bridge over the tracks down to the track area, and the stairways have been closed off.  This has been the case for over a year and Shaker threatened RTA to demolish the stairwells and canopy within a fixed time period less they take legal action against the transit agency.  Shaker's threat was months ago. Yet as of today, the ugly stairs and broken-out canopies remain-- a really eyesore esp given the wealthy neighborhoods immediately nearby.  Surprised this hasn't been dealt with.

[NOTE: all East Side Rail will shut down on Saturday instead of (light traffic) Sunday, for some reason-- no, I doubt traffic will swell for Mother's Day]

 

May 11-13: Rail Construction Projects

 

CLEVELAND -- The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) continues its rail grade crossing construction this weekend on the Blue Line at the Avalon station on Friday evening, as well as replacing all East side rail (Red, Blue and Green) with buses for an ODOT project on Saturday and Sunday.

 

Blue Line Avalon project, buses replace rail between Shaker Square and end of line

 

Starting at 8 pm Friday, May 11, until the end of service Sunday, May 13, 2012, all Blue Line service between Shaker Square and the Van Aken/ Warrensville Station will be replaced by buses. Replacement buses will stop at all stations and maintain a schedule similar to rail service. Travel may be slower due to traffic.

 

East Side Rail project for ODOT, all rail service replaced by buses

 

On Saturday, May 12, buses will replace all rail service east of Tower City on the Red, Blue and Green lines. This includes:

All Red Line service between the Louis Stokes Station at Windermere and Tower City.

All Green Line service between the Green Road Station and Tower City.

All Blue Line service between the Van Aken/Warrensville Station and Tower City.

Red Line service on the west side will not be affected.

 

Customers are asked to allow extra time to reach their destinations during these projects.

 

All regular rail service will resume at the start of service on Monday, May 14, 2012.

 

RTA regrets any inconvenience to its customers during this time.

 

http://www.riderta.com/newsroom/releases/?listingid=1729

 

AGAIN

 

 

[NOTE: all East Side Rail will shut down on Saturday instead of (light traffic) Sunday, for some reason-- no, I doubt traffic will swell for Mother's Day]

 

May 11-13: Rail Construction Projects

 

...

 

On Saturday, May 12, buses will replace all rail service east of Tower City on the Red, Blue and Green lines. This includes:

All Red Line service between the Louis Stokes Station at Windermere and Tower City.

All Green Line service between the Green Road Station and Tower City.

All Blue Line service between the Van Aken/Warrensville Station and Tower City.

Red Line service on the west side will not be affected.

 

...

 

http://www.riderta.com/newsroom/releases/?listingid=1729

 

 

Clvlndr, I can't speak for ODOT (the decision-maker insofar as the Saturday shutdown is concerned), but I can say that, were I responsible for a project such as this, I'd likely build in a little "pad time" with weekend work to ensure that if anything Saturday didn't go as planned, I could use Sunday to complete work and/or back things out/revert to prior conditions in time for morning rush hour on Monday. Most projects of this caliber tend to do "heavy lifting" on Saturdays.

For those mentioning the trolleys vs. the waterfront line, I think the big difference is that you had to pay to ride the waterfront line, whereas the trolleys will be free. IIRC it was only 50 cents, but that's enough to deter people, whereas a free shuttle will be used more.

[NOTE: all East Side Rail will shut down on Saturday instead of (light traffic) Sunday, for some reason-- no, I doubt traffic will swell for Mother's Day]

 

May 11-13: Rail Construction Projects

 

...

 

On Saturday, May 12, buses will replace all rail service east of Tower City on the Red, Blue and Green lines. This includes:

All Red Line service between the Louis Stokes Station at Windermere and Tower City.

All Green Line service between the Green Road Station and Tower City.

All Blue Line service between the Van Aken/Warrensville Station and Tower City.

Red Line service on the west side will not be affected.

 

...

 

http://www.riderta.com/newsroom/releases/?listingid=1729

 

 

Clvlndr, I can't speak for ODOT (the decision-maker insofar as the Saturday shutdown is concerned), but I can say that, were I responsible for a project such as this, I'd likely build in a little "pad time" with weekend work to ensure that if anything Saturday didn't go as planned, I could use Sunday to complete work and/or back things out/revert to prior conditions in time for morning rush hour on Monday. Most projects of this caliber tend to do "heavy lifting" on Saturdays.

 

Thanks for the explanation, JetDog... makes more sense now... I do think it would be helpful if RTA could give a seasonal (ie late spring/summertime) schedule of closures ahead of time, so folks could plan... I have friends coming in from out/town this weekend, and I'd hope to show them downtown via the Rapid... Now, that's out the window.  We were hit by this at the last min; if I'd known, ahead of time, I may have planned to have them in another weekend.  Now, we're either going to have to fight the parking wars downtown, ... or avoid downtown all together; sadly, probably the latter.

For those mentioning the trolleys vs. the waterfront line, I think the big difference is that you had to pay to ride the waterfront line, whereas the trolleys will be free. IIRC it was only 50 cents, but that's enough to deter people, whereas a free shuttle will be used more.

 

Yeah, that kind of makes me feel that, in a way, RTA is undermining the success of this Rail Line, which it's previous admin invested so much in.  The Waterfront Line is the most efficient way to travel to/from the Muny Lot to the casino, there's no debating that... It would be nice if RTA solicited businesses to subsidize the Waterfront line ALONG WITH the trolleys.... Pittsburgh does that with it's light rail (the T), which is why it's free in its subway/elevated line through the Golden Triangle (downtown).

Thanks for the explanation, JetDog... makes more sense now... I do think it would be helpful if RTA could give a seasonal (ie late spring/summertime) schedule of closures ahead of time, so folks could plan... I have friends coming in from out/town this weekend, and I'd hope to show them downtown via the Rapid... Now, that's out the window.  We were hit by this at the last min; if I'd known, ahead of time, I may have planned to have them in another weekend.  Now, we're either going to have to fight the parking wars downtown, ... or avoid downtown all together; sadly, probably the latter.

 

As one of the people responsible for the distribution of this kind of information, and a lifelong transit user myself, I'm with you there, and I (we) do appreciate your desire to use RTA services with out-of-towners.

 

Unfortunately, our closure schedule a) isn't always ours (see earlier comment about ODOT), and b) can be extremely fluid based on availability of materials, capital funds, and good weather (NONE of which are a given in this climate, and I mean that in EVERY sense of the word). I have a real thing against distributing information early only to have to publicize it again when things majorly change. It's difficult enough getting people to listen once, never mind multiple times (how many people actually READ the story corrections in the PD?).

 

All that being said, we're working on it, and we're trying to get better at it, in every way possible. I'd like to think we've made some progress. It's a top-to-bottom cooperation process, and your input into how we can make that process smoother is valuable and appreciated.

 

BTW, if you're coming from the East side, park at Windermere and show your friends the HealthLine and everything happening along Euclid Ave. I think they'll appreciate it.  :-D

Blind RTA rider says transit cops failed to rescue him after falling on tracks, calling for help

CLEVELAND - An exclusive 5 On Your Side investigation reveals how a blind rail passenger fell onto busy tracks at RTA's Tower City terminal, but at least five transit police officers failed to respond to his desperate calls for help.

 

Niral Sheth, 30, fell at least 3 feet onto an active rail line on a busy Saturday afternoon in April, but it took more than 11 minutes before transit police arrived at the scene.

 

The life-threatening scene was recorded by an RTA surveillance camera and at least five transit police officers were on duty at the time.

 

Incredibly, Sheth was pulled to safety by a blind companion who later went searching for help -- led by his guide dog.

 

http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/investigations/blind-rta-rider-says-transit-cops-failed-to-rescue-him-after-falling-on-tracks-calling-for-help

Whoa.

I think this refers to prior discussions about RTA cops who stand around inside the free area between the Red and Blue/Green lines. They are very helpful to people in there, including helping folks with those fare machines. But from there you'll never hear anything of what's going on trackside.

Blind RTA rider says transit cops failed to rescue him after falling on tracks, calling for help

CLEVELAND - An exclusive 5 On Your Side investigation reveals how a blind rail passenger fell onto busy tracks at RTA's Tower City terminal, but at least five transit police officers failed to respond to his desperate calls for help.

 

Niral Sheth, 30, fell at least 3 feet onto an active rail line on a busy Saturday afternoon in April, but it took more than 11 minutes before transit police arrived at the scene.

 

The life-threatening scene was recorded by an RTA surveillance camera and at least five transit police officers were on duty at the time.

 

Incredibly, Sheth was pulled to safety by a blind companion who later went searching for help -- led by his guide dog.

 

http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/investigations/blind-rta-rider-says-transit-cops-failed-to-rescue-him-after-falling-on-tracks-calling-for-help

 

He lay on the tracks for 11 mins. with a late, casual response by RTA cops. A terrible, but lucky story... Lucky?  Guess we should be thankful for the Red Line's weak (every 20-min) frequencies, as well as the ridiculous every 30-min/train weekend Waterfront Line schedule.  Otherwise, this poor fellow would have been doomed... Interestingly, Mr. Sheth said the same thing I've been saying: these transit cops appear solely focused on apprehending fare jumpers at the expense of helping someone in need.  I still don't get why these cops congregate in the free fare zone inside the Tower City mall.  Many more cops need to be on the Tower City platforms, on the trains and at the neighborhood stops, deterring crime as well as enforcing the POP fare policy.  Obviously, this high-profile TV news story, and the upcoming lawsuit based on it, are not the kind of publicity RTA needs... Excellent reporting by Channel 5's Ron Regan, btw.

I still don't get why these cops congregate in the free fare zone inside the Tower City mall.  Many more cops need to be on the Tower City platforms, on the trains and at the neighborhood stops, deterring crime as well as enforcing the POP fare policy.

 

Perfectly said. I couldn't agree more.

They definitely need to be on the trains more often. I know it sucks asking to see people's farecards, passes, etc. and to be out in the cold on the platforms, but no one said being a cop was an easy job. I don't remember the last time I saw an RTA cop on a Red Line train, HealthLine bus, or a station platform for either.

They definitely need to be on the trains more often. I know it sucks asking to see people's farecards, passes, etc. and to be out in the cold on the platforms, but no one said being a cop was an easy job. I don't remember the last time I saw an RTA cop on a Red Line train, HealthLine bus, or a station platform for either.

 

In all my Healthline trips, and at one point they were several rides daily, I only experienced them once. I honestly dont know what the hell they do. If they aren't checking for farecards, and they aren't even on the Tower City platform to help or secure. So what are they doing?!

I know some time ago, (over a year) I did see cops checking farecards on an inbound (from the airport) Red Line train... I also saw one on a Health Line run, again, over a year ago.  I have seen them appear at W. 25th during the shoulders or rush hour.  I remember it made me rather queasy to see the cop squeezing through the crowded train with 9mm Glock brushing up against passengers -- would much prefer the on-board/fare checking cops to be unarmed... but that's just me.

 

.. As to train frequency, I hope per Jerry's comment, that the Red Line reestablishes a 15-minute base train frequency.  I don't quite understand it, but Jerry indicated that the Lightening-damaged signal tower in Brook Park has prevented this from happening, to date...

 

... Also, I really hope, when the Waterfront Line is brought back full time, when the FEB project is completed, they quite that every-30 minute non-service.  I see no reason why both Blue and Green Line trains aren't run through to the short, 2-mile WFL run.  Half-hourly trains are absurd on such a short run, one where an able-body person can, casually, walk from, say, E. 9th (North Coast) to Tower City in about 15 mins.  Moreover, I can't see RTA saving but relative pennies by extending all off-peak trains over the WFL.  Heck, I sure RTA spends more $$ producing/airing those cutesy commercials on TV and radio... Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the commercials (you don't often hear transit commercials in cities), but I'd much rather that money go towards reestablishing full, through WFL service, once it's restarted... Either run every 15-min trains (through Blue and Green Line trains), or don't tease the public with the 30-min interval trains... Makes no sense. 

:wtf:

With through running of the Blue and Green line trains to the WFL, would that do anything for the congestion of Red,Blue, and Green line trains using the same trackage?

arent all rapid stations non smoking? maybe they should get these cops at all stations to actually enforce this law. i get tired of being at a station and having someone light up right next to me when theres a sign that specifically states NO SMOKING. go far the hell away from me and smoke, i'm not trying to get second hand smoke from your cancer sticks.

:wtf:

With through running of the Blue and Green line trains to the WFL, would that do anything for the congestion of Red,Blue, and Green line trains using the same trackage?

 

I don't think so.  Remember, East Side Red, Blue and Green trains all share a single pair of tracks from E. 55th to Tower City.  Therefore, trains from each of these lines arrive at Tower City in timed intervals, meaning that inbound Blue and Green Line trains unload then board passengers and depart for the Waterfront prior to a westbound Red Line train entering Tower City... Keep in mind, this system worked fine for several years after the Waterfront Line was built -- from 1996 until about 2006-8, when RTA began reducing Watefront Service... First, running half-hourly trains during rush hour, only.  Then, around 2010, when RTA cutback WFL service, again, ... this time to half-hourly service during the daytime (6a to 6p) on weekends, and special events (like Browns' games) only.

 

... Thus, the issue was never about congestion.  It was only about low ridership & money, at least, according to RTA.  Even though IIRC RTA once reported to the PD, they were saving less than $1M a year by limiting the service...

 

... again, in fairness to RTA, they have stated that they will return M-F service once the Flats East Bank development opens next year.  RTA has exhibited good faith in returning more frequent base bus service (ev 15 mins) on heavy lines, like the HL and Routes 22 and 26 and pledged to do the same for the Red Line.  I just think that, once WFL service is returned, it will only be effective it is every 15 minutes running during the same hours as the regular Blue and Green Lines.