I thought this might be of interest.....

 

State $$ for transit (2004) in 000's

1. New York $1,811,372

2. California $1,317,934

3. Massachusetts $1,291,363

4. New Jersey $837,476

5. Maryland $789,511

6. Pennsylvania $785,151

7. Illinois $778,700

8. Minnesota $214,255

9. Michigan $209,652

   District of Columbia $208,253

10. Connecticut $200,167

11. North Carolina $154,680

12. Virginia $140,100

13. Wisconsin $109,078

14. Florida $96,504

15. Delaware $72,000

16. Tennessee  $38,532

17. Rhode Island $36,840

18. Indiana $36,201

19. Oregon $31,445

20. Washington $29,150

21. Texas  $27,741

22. Arizona $20,068

23. Ohio $18,100

24. Iowa $8,600

25. Missouri $6,600

26. Vermont $6,103

27. Kansas $6,000

28. South Carolina $5,864

29. Louisiana $4,963

30. Georgia  $4,858

31. Arkansas $2,800

32. Oklahoma $2,750

33. Wyoming $2,466

34. New Mexico $2,402

35. West Virginia $2,294

36. North Dakota $1,546

37. Nebraska $1,500

38. Kentucky $1,400

39. South Dakota $996

40. Mississippi $800

41. Maine $505

42. Montana $390

43. Idaho $312

44. New Hampshire $225

45. Nevada $125

46. Alabama $0

47. Alaska $0

48. Colorado $0

49. Hawaii $0

50. Utah $0

 

 

But I think this ranking tells the story even more accurately......

 

State funding per capita

    District of Columbia $376.23

1. Massachusetts $201.26

2. Maryland $142.05

3. New Jersey $96.27

4. New York $94.21

5. Delaware $86.71

6. Pennsylvania $63.29

7. Illinois $61.25

8. Connecticut $57.13

9. Minnesota $42.00

10. California $36.72

11. Rhode Island $34.09

12. Michigan $20.73

13. Wisconsin $19.80

14. Virginia $18.78

15. North Carolina $18.11

16. Vermont $9.82

17. Oregon $8.75

18. Tennessee $6.53

18. Indiana $5.80

20. Florida $5.55

21. Wyoming $4.87

22. Washington $4.70

23. Arizona $3.49

24. North Dakota $2.44

25. Iowa $2.91

26. Kansas $2.19

27. Ohio $1.58

28. South Carolina $1.40

29. South Dakota $1.29

30. New Mexico $1.26

31. West Virginia $1.26

32. Texas $1.23

33. Missouri $1.15

34. Louisiana $1.10

35. Arkansas $1.02

36. Nebraska $0.86

37. Oklahoma $0.78

38. Georgia $0.55

39. Montana $0.42

40. Maine $0.38

41. Kentucky $0.34

42. Mississippi $0.28

43. Idaho $0.22

44. New Hampshire $0.17

45. Nevada $0.05

46. Alabama $0.00

47. Alaska $0.00

48. Colorado $0.00

49. Hawaii $0.00

50. Utah $0.00

 

SOURCE: http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_rpt_569.pdf

Also, in addition to the above, please note the first bar graph on page 35 at http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_rpt_569.pdf

 

From 1995-2004, the comparative annual growth rates in state funding for transit fell in only six states (Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Nebraska, Florida and Iowa). And only one state (Nevada) cut funding for transit more per yearly average than Ohio did (-7.5%). A later chart suggests Ohio made up for the state funding cuts with federal funding -- but the federal funding wasn't for operating costs, it was for capital investment. And state cuts since 2004 weren't made up for with federal funding.

 

Note that 44 states INCREASED funding for transit. The average annual growth rate in state funding for all states, including the six that cut funding, was 3.9 percent.

 

If Ohio increased funding for transit at the national average growth rate, it would have provided $56.44 million in 2004 rather than just $18.1 million (or $10 million this year!). Even IF Ohio stayed no-growth in transit funding from 2005-09 rather than make further cuts like it did, Ohio's funding for transit would still rank it 9th in the nation (near to its 7th spot in national population) and, assuming the same what-if scenario, it's $4.91 per capita in transit funding would rank it 21st in the nation -- but still only barely edging out WYOMING!

But again, returning to 327's point, who authorized this Buckeye/BRT study especially from a transit system that's crying broke and cutting bus and rail services left and right?  While I'm of course sympathetic to the gross govt underfunding and even agree w/ Calabrese's advocacy for capitalizing fuel costs in order to allow Federal subsidy, I have zero confidence in the leadership or vision of Joe C. who has clearly established himself the foe of any transit that involves rail (including Amtrak 3-C)..

 

Joe C has come out in strong support of the 3C corridor, however he also accurately states that funding for the 3C while decreasing local public transit to access the 3C doesn't make a lot of sense.  At the end of the day, he is trying to find money for RTA first.  The local MPO meetings are very instructive about public transportation funding with a widespread attitude that we can't afford these investments, roads in my county need repaved, no one will use the train, etc.  These meetings - or meeting with the representatives from the various counties - are one way to at least get Northeast Ohio on board with transportation investments.  Despite some opposition, RTA has been able to get significantly more money from CMAQ and other NOACA "pots" that weren't previously available.  However, these are band aids and not a long term funding fix.

 

IMO, the real problem is as KJP pointed out - a very strong anti-urban, anti-public transit attitude among our state's elected "leaders" at many different levels.  Ohio also has more urbanized areas than a lot of other states, making the problem worse as disinvestment now occurs in the 3Cs, Dayton, Toledo, Akron, Canton, etc. and not just 1 or 2 big cities.  Having lived in a couple of states with only 1 or 2 major cities, I also think it can be easier to get behind supporting projects in X state's big city, instead of spreading them out statewide.  What is Ohio's flagship city?

 

Two points. First, RTA does a horrible job of marketing. The Los Angeles transit system launched a marketing campaign with billboards along highways, newspaper ads, signs on buses, etc--all urging people to take public transit and promoting the advantages of doing so. Why can't RTA do something like this? Everytime I'm stuck on 480 at rush hour I wonder if there can't be some way to make the trip by public transit. But there's no effort on RTA's part to change my habits. Why aren't they pushing political and business leaders to use public transit and then developing a marketing campaign around that? Why aren't they promoting some of the federal incentives to increase transit use? Second, there should be at least a few crosstown bus routes that allow you to get from the east side of Cleveland to the west side without transferring. The most obvious routes would seem to be one that ran the length of Lorain Avenue and then Carnegie (thus connecting a major employer, the Cleveland Clinic, with the west side) or a Detroit/Superior/St Clair Aves route. Frankly, for a bus ride from Ohio City to Cleveland State University to require a transfer is ridiculous.

 

RTA had a pretty aggressive advertising campaign for the past few years, using the Join the Ride slogan.  There were TV spots, billboards on all the major highways (facing stop and go rush hour traffic), newspaper ads, etc.  They also used testimonials from the same people you reference - showcasing people in the community that use RTA, students, office/legal/healthcare workers, etc.  RTA also heavily marketed the HealthLine.  Some of this is still going on with limited print ads and an occasional radio spot.  You can see some of the short spots on youtube if you search Cleveland RTA ads.

 

But, RTA also gets beat up over spending even a dollar on adverstising when they are cutting service - time and again, whether at a public hearing or through a local tv investigative reporter.  IMO, there isn't widespread community support or understanding why RTA should advertise.  Rather, there is strong community sentiment that RTA better do everything in its power to keep my route before trying to attract new riders to the system.

The local MPO meetings are very instructive about public transportation funding with a widespread attitude that we can't afford these investments, roads in my county need repaved, no one will use the train, etc. 

 

But that should mean no trains are being built in the red-state south, which isn't true.  The teabagger cities are building trains left and right.  Yet they hate government and they hate transit-riders.  How can this be?  Somehow someone is overcoming these political difficulties and making things happen.  Step one is wanting it.  Joe C doesn't want it.  As clvlndr said earlier, studying BRT on Buckeye makes very little sense unless one discounts the rail line that runs literally a block to the north.  What we're talking about here is evidence of motivation. 

 

Sure, Joe C (got more game than Coleco) wants to oversee an agency that isn't struggling and shrinking, so I'm sure he goes around asking for money.  But what does he plan to do long term with our transit system?  We have evidence.  I don't like how it looks.  However much state clout Cleveland loses to uber-conservative Cincinnati, it is a foregone conclusion we'll get no new rail if our transit leadership doesn't want any. 

 

By the way, the leadership in uber-conservative Cincinnati is trying very hard to get a streetcar built, despite public pressure against it.  A contentious ballot measure just went in the streetcar's favor there.  Columbus is talking about this too, although less so.  Meanwhile, Joe C can't get any traction in uber-liberal Cleveland, where the county can whip up half a billion on a whim, and which already has a rail system?  I really, really, really think the problem is him... primarily the fact that he doesn't like trains. 

 

We need a leader at RTA who likes trains.  It's like saying I run Smuckers but I hate jelly.  Plenty of people like jelly.  Let them run Smuckers. 

 

 

If you want more funding from rural parts of the state, you need to convince them that it is in their own interests to supply it.  You need to convince the legislator from Beeblefrack County, which means convincing the farmers from said county, that their well-being is directly connected to ours.  That the main markets for their agricultural products are urban areas like this one, and that urban areas require a certain minimal amount of transit, generally proportional to their size, to become or remain economically healthy.  That if Cleveland dies, so does a large part of their market, thus a large part of their livelihood.  And that Cleveland is not unique even within Ohio in that regard: other urban areas, including suburban counties, need transit options in order to thrive and perhaps even to survive.

 

The likely response will be that if Beeblefrack County decides to get onboard with funding urban transit, and its share of that funding ends up being $X, there had better be a return with a net present value of at least $X, preferably significantly more.  If it were to return any less, even $X-1, then it'd be better for them to oppose it.

 

To be blunt, the only way that is even remotely likely is if it ends up attracting significant outside investment, so that rather than merely slowing the decay and death of urban Ohio, that decay is halted and reversed and Ohio's cities including Cleveland become strong, vibrant hubs of commerce, economic development, and progress.

 

And transit alone is not going to solve that problem.  It can help, but it must be part of a bigger plan, a bigger vision, one that understands the gravity of the problem we now face: that if we do not do what is necessary to promote economic growth, and if we do not have the courage to remove obstacles to said growth (including the unchecked power of corrupt governments, corrupt unions, subsidized polluters, and many others), we will not survive, and our rural/agricultural friends not only will have no incentive to help us, but they probably will not survive either . . . like the rest of us they will be forced to move to where the growth and jobs actually are.

 

Bottom line: no one wants to pump money into a dying project, so the question should not be, "how can we reduce the impact of the proposed transit cuts in 2010" but rather "how can we reverse the economic decline of Ohio's urban areas?"  The answer will undoubtedly include transit in some form.  It will probably be much better for transit than the disaster we're facing now.  It will probably be more market-oriented, so we will need to be thinking less in terms of "how can we get more $$ from the state" and more in terms of "how can we build an enterprise that is efficient, effective, and contributes greatly to the well-being of the entire region, so that those who use and fund it will consider it a good investment?"

One advantage of rail over bus, which we will squander unless we develop it fairly quickly (since today's low interest rates will not last forever), is the potential for automation and therefore for greatly reduced operating costs.  As I see it, we have a potentially once-in-a-lifetime to build MEANINGFUL capital improvements which will ultimately increase the benefits, and reduce the ongoing costs, of transit operations.  In an environment when capital is expensive, it simply doesn't make sense to build rail in a dying region.  But right now, capital is very cheap.  The time is right, right now.  It might never be again.  I'm well are of the fact that ATU will oppose automation and I understand their position; in their place I'd be leery of it myself.  But in the end, it might very well be what saves the system and helps save the region.  Imagine if there were largely automated light rail systems in the median of every major Cleveland area thoroughfare, if commuting by rail were easier, faster and cheaper than by car.  Fewer jobs for ATU bus drivers but far more for the economy as a whole since we wouldn't be wasting so much of our lives and our potential economic output sitting behind traffic lights and freeway backups. 

Joe C has come out in strong support of the 3C corridor, however he also accurately states that funding for the 3C while decreasing local public transit to access the 3C doesn't make a lot of sense. At the end of the day, he is trying to find money for RTA first.

 

A big reason why Joe C has said nice things about 3C is because All Aboard Ohio is helping RTA and other transit agencies get a more stable, diversified revenue stream. He recognizes, as does All Aboard Ohio, that the local transit systems, 3C trains, Greyhound, Lakefront, aviation, etc etc is (or should be) part of an interconnected network of public transportation. If you have only local transit systems, the state becomes even more balkanized than it already is (every wonder why the EU began pushing high-speed so strongly after the EU was formed? To unite the EU and create a cohesive economy). But if you have only 3C trains and an enhancement of the cosmetic remnants of Greyhound/Lakefront routes, they won't last long without local transit to serve as collector/distribution networks.

 

I am trying to get people to understand that local transit, 3C trains, Greyhound, Lakefront, airlines, etc. are all important to each other. But it's difficult when there are people backing each mode or carrier who have a paroachial view, sometimes because they think the people backing the other mode/carrier are trying to save themselves at the expense of the others.

 

We can be so much stronger as one intercity/intracity public transportation advocacy effort. If we remain separated, we will continue to fight each other for crumbs in that 1 percent of ODOT's budget that doesn't already go to highways.

I understand that transit funding in Ohio is incredibly tight and that, especially compared to other states, the state does a horrible job of understanding the critical role transit plays in the health of the whole state's economy. But the smaller and tighter your budget is, the more critical it becomes to spend every penny wisely and in a manner that strategically advances both your mission and your political capital. And I'm not sure I see RTA doing this.

Are any of you who are critical or posting idea's/suggestions on RTA's Citizens Advisory Board???

I have had plenty of suggestions for RTA to make transit more appealing. I used to ride RTA frequently... I ride it occasionally now. Most of the time that I have either called or written about a concern/suggestion, it never gets a response.

 

Now, that can only mean the one of the following--or this is how I interpret it because I do not get a response.... 1. Overwhelmed with letters. 2. They don't care or see the issue as of any importance. 3.They hate me! I would hope that it would be more of number 1. Ha!

 

I don't think just because a customer has a complaint, comment, or suggestion about RTA.....that they always need belong to the advisory board. If I have an issue about customer service with a store, or suggestion....does this mean to evoke some ideas for changes that I would have to join some kind of board?

 

 

The result of not being heard is that I simply won't ride. But, I hate to say or do that because I understand the importance of public transport...the need...and how it is so overlooked in Ohio and is thrown the scrape of the barrel in the funding department. Maybe that is why it needs to be made to where there is more of a demand for it....and part of this has to do with making what you have right now, be as with much quality as possible so that it appeals to attracting new customers. That would be an important factor in helping to justify more spending on it.

 

At the same time, even on a strained budget, I could not understand how my suggestions and/or complaints would need a big budget to be able to address or implement. As to what my suggestions and concerns were...well, that is another story for maybe another post.

 

However today, I did notice something a bit odd about the Health Line station near 4th and Euclid....  It seems the concrete on those median stations is already busting to pieces. What happened? Cheap concrete? Bad work? Or did a bus or other vehicle strike it? Just wondering because I would hate to see these places start looking like crap so soon.

 

Lastly, to elaborate on a comment a few posts up....And although the good 'ole folks may not realize WHY.....But I think it is in rural Ohio's best interest to want money spent on urban cores and public transport, so as to make these places the place where people want to live...instead of choosing to sprawl all over the map and consume acre after acre of valuable farm land that get surrendered to the pressures of sprawl. Not good for the local farmer, is it? Not good for the agricultural community...or in preserving their rural quality of life they love so much in the first place.

 

KJP hits the nail on the head.

Two points. First, RTA does a horrible job of marketing. The Los Angeles transit system launched a marketing campaign with billboards along highways, newspaper ads, signs on buses, etc--all urging people to take public transit and promoting the advantages of doing so. Why can't RTA do something like this? Everytime I'm stuck on 480 at rush hour I wonder if there can't be some way to make the trip by public transit. But there's no effort on RTA's part to change my habits. Why aren't they pushing political and business leaders to use public transit and then developing a marketing campaign around that? Why aren't they promoting some of the federal incentives to increase transit use? Second, there should be at least a few crosstown bus routes that allow you to get from the east side of Cleveland to the west side without transferring. The most obvious routes would seem to be one that ran the length of Lorain Avenue and then Carnegie (thus connecting a major employer, the Cleveland Clinic, with the west side) or a Detroit/Superior/St Clair Aves route. Frankly, for a bus ride from Ohio City to Cleveland State University to require a transfer is ridiculous.

 

You raise some interesting points... as to crosstown buses.  These were tried recently, but RTA decided to go back to the old system and now, once again, radial East and West Side buses, once again, terminate downtown... I do think there should be, at least, a continuation of West Side buses thru to CSU, which is a major trip generator... Of course, the other idea, people have floated, is extending the Trolley to Ohio City-- which probably won't happen because, imho, it would siphon of fares with a free ride service.

 

Marketing, you're right, RTA is horrible, there's little real marketing other than for the hot new (expensive) flava of the month -- the Health Line.  Everywhere I look, it's Health Line, all the time... Even the Airport Rapid is 2nd fiddle (actually, no fiddle right now)..

 

But all this leads back to the original point: generously, RTA is a rudderless ship that lurches from scandal to crisis-- (the Bus-turning death/subsequent honking debacle; the pre-POP 10s to 100s of thousands of $ lost in lost Rapid fares not collected (because of no coherent fare collection system) w/ no accountability; the Health Line concrete mixing fiasco, and now the poorly designed POP fare machines on the Red Line -- where does it stop?  In terms of service, it seems RTA only puts for the minimal effort to stay just ahead of criticism which, for the most part, it cannot avoid.  There's a 'Public Be Damned' attitute wafting from W. 6th Street.  And the meat-cleaver approach towards cuts -- where we clearly understand the belt tightening needed against a very stingy Columbus in terms of transit funding -- still, I think JoeC's cuts are hasty and have given little though to other cuts that could be made that would have a lesser impact, especially for services that greatly impact low income folks who have no alternatives.  ie -- why do so many buses have to enter downtown?  Why can't more be diverted to Rapid stations (ie W.25th Ohio City where literally a hundred + buses, each day, zip right past (or w/in a block) and head for Public Square)... Why no cuts here?  At least, people would have an alternative; they just wouldn't have their cushy 1-seat ride to Public Square... Isn't this the way rapid transit is supposed to operate -- oh yeah, I forget, our transit GM doesn't believe in rapid transit...

 

But the proposed BRT on Buckeye is the most disturbing twist I've seen.  Somebody -- JoeC or whoever -- needs to be called on the carpet for this.  If JoeC is crying broke, I want to know why anyone would be STUPID enough to propose using the 2nd most expensive technology in use (BRT) to compete against our fastest, large capacity Rapid system...  If collectively the town sits in silence for crap like this, the whole City loses... Inexcusable!

^ Great points.. Not to mention other obvious problems like not maintaining the cleanliness of the stations enough....  I could take someone on a tour and point out exactly what I mean. These are basics and should not, in any time, require a higher budget to implement. I also wrote a long article about the ridiculousness of this horn honking thing....why it should not be done...among many other things. Yes, the marketing is not 'selling the product' to make many think about changing their commuting ways. I also find it quite annoying to sit on a bus when all it takes is one idiot who does not have the common sense of a goose---and does not know how to behave and sit there and respect other people surrounding them...TURN DOWN THE DAMN I-pod and stop imposing it on everyone else who didn't ask for it. Tone down the shouting too! Basically... everyday manners that lack by some customers. I have seen food/drink (open containers) being brought on buses.. This should be a no no. The lack of services to meet today's demands is another issue as you pointed out. You're right... It seems to really be a ship without a captain....or worse, a rudder! I am sure there are excuses to be offered for all...and that's fine, but these are just a few reasons I take it less than before.

But the proposed BRT on Buckeye is the most disturbing twist I've seen. Somebody -- JoeC or whoever -- needs to be called on the carpet for this. If JoeC is crying broke, I want to know why anyone would be STUPID enough to propose using the 2nd most expensive technology in use (BRT) to compete against our fastest, large capacity Rapid system... If collectively the town sits in silence for crap like this, the whole City loses... Inexcusable!

 

As you know, this is not a true BRT in the HealthLine sense of the word. A more apt description is running the existing articulated buses in a transit corridor with streetscaping around transit stops. The same thing is proposed for Clifton.

 

As you also know, there is federal capital funding available for transit but not for operating costs. Thus I'm hopeful this will also include signal prioritization for transit vehicles on these "BRT light" and other routes to reduce travel times, reduce vehicle-hours, improve reliability, increase fuel efficiency and reduce wear and tear on brakes.

But the proposed BRT on Buckeye is the most disturbing twist I've seen.  Somebody -- Joe or whoever -- needs to be called on the carpet for this.  If Joe is crying broke, I want to know why anyone would be STUPID enough to propose using the 2ND most expensive technology in use (BRT) to compete against our fastest, large capacity Rapid system...  If collectively the town sits in silence for crap like this, the whole City loses... Inexcusable!

 

As you know, this is not a true BRT in the HealthLine sense of the word. A more apt description is running the existing articulated buses in a transit corridor with  around transit stops. The same thing is proposed for Clifton.

 

As you also know, there is federal capital funding available for transit but not for operating costs. Thus I'm hopeful this will also include signal prioritization for transit vehicles on these "BRT light" and other routes to reduce travel times, reduce vehicle's, improve reliability, increase fuel efficiency and reduce wear and tear on brakes.

 

I understand the concept on Clifton -- this is a wide street; a heavy bus corridor (w/ the 55s) and does not compete, directly with any of the Rapid lines... Buckeye is exactly the opposite on all counts, and makes no sense.  Most importantly, it's a very light transit line -- at most times of day, it could be run with the shorter/mini buses; even smaller Connector vehicles... So why is a Buckeye BRT, in any form, under consideration and study? ... paralleling and 1 block from high-speed/high capacity rapid transit KJP?  .... surely, something else is going on here, and I'd sure like to get some answers from RTA.... I've been silent on JoeC and his incompetence/agenda for some time, but this really pisses me off, esp in light of the dirty stations, filthy corridors (esp along that Shaker Blvd trench which you NEVER saw before), the continued slow zones on rail's elevated portion  (with no explanation why -- at least that I've seen -- and no timetable towards fixing the tracks) ... in other words -- as others are echoing -- the general state of transit operations, esp rail, have sucked... and now we're going to ask the Feds to expend money to "study" how we can expend money on an expensive bus proposal -- whatever BRT form -- to COMPETE with our rail system; from a transit GM who's hostile to rail... KJP, this is beyond an abomomination...

 

... and to hell with the 2007 Best North American Transit System mumbo-jumbo JoeC loved to tout... I'd love to call it a sick joke, but too many too many Cuyahoga County lives are being jerked around in the process.

^ Word.

I imagine that, in the event that evening and weekend service is canceled (as proposed by RTA) on the 55, it will be a lot more difficult politically to secure funding for BRT on Clifton. 

I love how none of you answered my previous question.

^ I basically did....I thought.

I'll ask for a second time.

 

Are any of you who are critical or posting idea's/suggestions on RTA's Citizens Advisory Board???

 

This requires a "yes" or "no" response.

 

Regarding the Citizens Advisory Board, I'd like to know why so few of their meetings have published agendas and minutes on the website?  For 2009, only the agendas for Jan-Oct are published, and none of the CAB meeting minutes are posted.  TIAC and ADA committees have posted agendas or minutes sporadically as well.  Not very public-friendly for a group that supposedly acts on the public behalf...

 

http://www.riderta.com/CAB/

Regarding the Citizens Advisory Board, I'd like to know why so few of their meetings have published agendas and minutes on the website?  For 2009, only the agendas for Jan-Oct are published, and none of the CAB meeting minutes are posted.  TIAC and ADA committees have posted agendas or minutes sporadically as well.  Not very public-friendly for a group that supposedly acts on the public behalf...

 

http://www.riderta.com/CAB/

 

Have you let RTA know your feelings?  You shouldn't have to, but you make a MAJOR point.  Accountability!

 

This should be automatic, if RTA has crossed all its "t's" and dotted all it's "i's" then they could easy refer citizens, etc. directly to this site.

Regarding the Citizens Advisory Board, I'd like to know why so few of their meetings have published agendas and minutes on the website? For 2009, only the agendas for Jan-Oct are published, and none of the CAB meeting minutes are posted. TIAC and ADA committees have posted agendas or minutes sporadically as well. Not very public-friendly for a group that supposedly acts on the public behalf...

 

http://www.riderta.com/CAB/

 

Have you let RTA know your feelings? You shouldn't have to, but you make a MAJOR point. Accountability!

 

This should be automatic, if RTA has crossed all its "t's" and dotted all it's "i's" then they could easy refer citizens, etc. directly to this site.

 

No, because I'm an infrequent transit user, but to me, it's a glaring omission for a board that acts in the public interest to fail to post their meeting minutes to make them accessible to even the most casual RTA users like me.  Since I live out of the county, I don't know if my complaint about this will have any impact, although I guess I'm supporting RTA every time I make a purchase in Cuy Co.

I'll ask for a second time.

 

Are any of you who are critical or posting idea's/suggestions on RTA's Citizens Advisory Board???

 

 

 

No

Regarding the Citizens Advisory Board, I'd like to know why so few of their meetings have published agendas and minutes on the website?  For 2009, only the agendas for Jan-Oct are published, and none of the CAB meeting minutes are posted.  TIAC and ADA committees have posted agendas or minutes sporadically as well.  Not very public-friendly for a group that supposedly acts on the public behalf...

 

http://www.riderta.com/CAB/

 

Have you let RTA know your feelings?  You shouldn't have to, but you make a MAJOR point.  Accountability!

 

This should be automatic, if RTA has crossed all its "t's" and dotted all it's "i's" then they could easy refer citizens, etc. directly to this site.

 

No, because I'm an infrequent transit user, but to me, it's a glaring omission for a board that acts in the public interest to fail to post their meeting minutes to make them accessible to even the most casual RTA users like me.  Since I live out of the county, I don't know if my complaint about this will have any impact, although I guess I'm supporting RTA every time I make a purchase in Cuy Co.

And to me it's a glaring issue with NE Ohio.

 

RTA to NE Ohio as Cleveland is to NE Ohio.  If RTA fails, all transit in NE Ohio will fail.  Although you're not a frequent transit user, you should be upset, involved and engaged as to what RTA is doing.  If RTA is hurt, then the TA's that link to RTA will also have issues.

 

Simply say "im an infrequent transit user" is not an excuse, regardless of whether you live in Cuyahoga County or not.

Have you let RTA know your feelings? You shouldn't have to, but you make a MAJOR point. Accountability!

 

 

 

Yes, over and over again. Little to no response. As a customer and as far as I am concerned, there is no excuse for this. So, if this is how I would be treated as a customer...then I don't need to give my money to them.

Have you let RTA know your feelings?  You shouldn't have to, but you make a MAJOR point.  Accountability!

 

 

 

Yes, over and over again. Little to no response. As a customer and as far as I am concerned, there is no excuse for this. So, if this is how I would be treated as a customer...then I don't need to give my money to them.

 

Have you let our UO RTA reps know your concerns?

^ Again, over and over again. Stop placing the burden of proof on the customer here.... If they (RTA)fail to respond in timely manners then this is their fault/problem...not mine. I've done my part. Believe me, if there is an issue to be brought to the forefront, I will do it. I've cracked the whip when necessary.  :whip:

Are any of you who are critical or posting idea's/suggestions on RTA's Citizens Advisory Board???

 

No I haven't.  But it's not a bad idea; something I'll probably explore... I really wonder, MTS, how much impact the CAB has given the cuts that RTA has gotten thru.  I do admire the way they stood up for the Community Connectors and put JoeC on the defensive... realistically, though, my strong gripes about BRT up Buckeye vs the Rapid would probably seem arcane to the CAB, which are mainly, and wisely, more concerned about bus route cuts rather than long-range planning... But I'll check CAB out, nonetheless.

^ Again, over and over again. Stop placing the burden of proof on the customer here.... If they (RTA)fail to respond in timely manners then this is their fault/problem...not mine. I've done my part. Believe me, if there is an issue to be brought to the forefront, I will do it. I've cracked the whip when necessary.  :whip:

 

Placing burden?  I'm asking a very simple question.  If going the tradition route hasn't worked, why not alert one of RTA reps on this very board?

 

If they get your question, then they might be able to investigate why your initial query was not answered.

 

Obviously something went wrong.

Are any of you who are critical or posting idea's/suggestions on RTA's Citizens Advisory Board???

 

No I haven't.  But it's not a bad idea; something I'll probably explore... I really wonder, MTS, how much impact the CAB has given the cuts that RTA has gotten thru.  I do admire the way they stood up for the Community Connectors and put JoeC on the defensive... realistically, though, my strong gripes about BRT up Buckeye vs the Rapid would probably seem arcane to the CAB, which are mainly, and wisely, more concerned about bus route cuts rather than long-range planning... But I'll check CAB out, nonetheless.

 

It makes no sense unless they are consolidating all buses on buckeye as they have rerouted/consolidated the 12/13 which made more people ride the rapid.  The 13 is gone and is now the 11.  But there isn't a need for a full line when the rapid is right there.  The 11 line should be moved south (griffing ave.) as there is no east-west line between buckeye and kinsman.  But should still end at Shaker Square.

 

I need to read more into the BRT as it may just be bus consolidation/rerouting.

^ Again, over and over again. Stop placing the burden of proof on the customer here.... If they (RTA)fail to respond in timely manners then this is their fault/problem...not mine. I've done my part. Believe me, if there is an issue to be brought to the forefront, I will do it. I've cracked the whip when necessary. :whip:

 

Placing burden? I'm asking a very simple question. If going the tradition route hasn't worked, why not alert one of RTA reps on this very board?

 

If they get your question, then they might be able to investigate why your initial query was not answered.

 

Obviously something went wrong.

 

 

Yes, in a way, because you're basically invalidating anyone's concern, of which they may have dealt with voicing in another fashion.... by suggesting that they need to state them here to a rep. Alert one of the RTA reps on this board? So everyone needs to know about Urban Ohio to get any action taken with RTA? I thought I did better.... I called over and over and wrote directly to RTA. Maybe RTA can have a link on their website that states.. "for comments, suggestions, ideas, complaints, etc...please see www.urbanohio.com's 'GREAT RTA' thread."

^ Again, over and over again. Stop placing the burden of proof on the customer here.... If they (RTA)fail to respond in timely manners then this is their fault/problem...not mine. I've done my part. Believe me, if there is an issue to be brought to the forefront, I will do it. I've cracked the whip when necessary.  :whip:

 

Placing burden?  I'm asking a very simple question.  If going the tradition route hasn't worked, why not alert one of RTA reps on this very board?

 

If they get your question, then they might be able to investigate why your initial query was not answered.

 

Obviously something went wrong.

 

 

Yes, in a way, because you're basically invalidating anyone's concern, of which they may have dealt with voicing in another fashion.... by suggesting that they need to state them here to a rep. Alert one of the RTA reps on this board? So everyone needs to know about Urban Ohio to get any action taken with RTA? I thought I did better.... I called over and over and wrote directly to RTA. Maybe RTA can have a link on their website that states.. "for comments, suggestions, ideas, complaints, etc...please see www.urbanohio.com's 'GREAT RTA' thread."

 

NO...AGAIN you're reading more into this.  It was a suggestion.  NOTHING MORE.  DAMN!  You make stuff way to difficult and blow sh!t out of proportion!  I speaking about YOUR instance only.  Period.

 

Let me break it down.

[*]You make a complaint to RTA

[*]You receive no response

[*]You complain here

Why not let our rep know?  He may not be aware that this is happening since it's not his area of responsibility, but by letting them know, they can forward your complaint/comment to the proper person and inquire as to why this happened.  This proactively could lead to an overhaul of the process or find out why your question received no response and work to ensure that it wont happen again. 

 

Just like you're complaining, how many others are?  There could be an electronic problem with the system, etc.  There could be a number of reasons.

 

If you dont want to say anything fine, but dont my suggestion out of proportion.

 

I'm done. 

^ And you don't get it either. Maybe we're both blowing things out of proportion. All I am going to ask is to take a look at how everytime someone on here has a complaint on something..... you slice and dice it all to pieces...highlighting in red, and so on....  as though to suggest that person's ideas are invalid.

 

 

Don't get me wrong.....I am all for questioning things, suggesting to take proper action rather than just venting all the time..... but you always question in such a way that seems to suggest no one can ever criticize anything at any time......that 'all is just swell in Dodge and if you don't like it leave', kind of way. How the heck do you know what course of action, if any, anyone on here who has had an issue with RTA, has taken? Yes, you did ask...but I'll bet you assumed that they all did nothing but complain.

 

Tell you what.... Here is something you can do...Because you do seem to possess a great deal of knowledge on how to get actions taken on issues. Take all the concerns and complaints here on RTA that may be worthy of hearing...and present it for the people in a way you feel would be most effective. You can be the voice of the people on UO who have issues with RTA.

 

Personally, I would refrain from making a complaint on this thread because you will just question it...slice it all up, etc..as though it has no worth, when in fact, it is still a concern, complaint, suggestion. I know where the discussion would end up going with you and I if I posted all my beefs about RTA on here. THAT'S why I won't do that. 

 

You make stuff way to difficult and blow sh!t out of proportion!

 

You guys have something in common.  The other thing you have in common is that both of you need to knock it off or take it to PM.

Hello. I have been out for 6 weeks on medical leave (brain surgery), and today is my first day back.

 

Granted, I have not had a chance to read every post, but I understand that there has been quite a bit of unproductive energy here, while people debate a project, that, as far as I can determine, exists only on Fantasy Island.

 

Earlier today, I spoke with Joe Calabrese, who said flat out, "there is no BRT being planned for the Buckeye area, but Maribeth Feke (head of RTA planning) is working with the community there on some other projects."

 

I asked Maribeth to give me a summary of what is being planned there, and here is what she wrote, verbatim.

 

"RTA is engaged in two planning projects in the Buckeye area. One is a station area plan for the E. 116th Street light rail station. RTA is finalizing the station area plan, which includes a new station, street improvements, and a station area land use plan. This was funded by NOACA as part of its Transportation for Livable Communities Initiative (TLCI). RTA partnered with the Buckeye Areas Development Corporation on this."

 

"Funding from NOACA was just announced for the Buckeye/Woodhill station area plan. RTA again partnered with Buckeye Area Development Corporation and also St. Lukes Foundation to complete a station area plan for the Light Rail station at Buckeye/E. 93/Shaker/Woodhill intersection. It is anticipated that the Woodhill Station Plan will leverage 3rd party development and spur economic activity around this key  RTA received $75,000 from NOACA for this effort and also $10,000 from the St. Lukes Foundation. The planning process will begin this spring and be completed by the end of 2010."

 

RTA staff regularly monitors this forum because it (usually) has valuable insight into transit-related matters. If you want to ask us a question, please do so. An opinion based on false information is a waste of time for both the reader and the poster. Several reporters also monitor this site, so spreading false info here could have far-reaching effects.

 

On many days, my other duties keep me from logging on. If my presence is urgently needed, just send an e-mail to [email protected], and I will be happy to weigh in on the issue of the day.

 

I hope each of you had a happy and safe holiday, and may 2010 be a "fare" one for us all.

 

--- Jerry Masek, Media Relations Manager and Publications Manager, RTA

Hello. I have been out for 6 weeks on medical leave (brain surgery), and today is my first day back.

 

Granted, I have not had a chance to read every post, but I understand that there has been quite a bit of unproductive energy here, while people debate a project, that, as far as I can determine. exists only on Fantasy Island.

 

Earlier today, I spoke with Joe Calabrese, who said flat out, "there is no BRT being planned for the Buckeye area, but Maribeth Feke (head of RTA planning) is working with the community there on some other projects."

 

I asked Maribeth to give me a summary of what is being planned there, and here is what she wrote, verbatim.

 

"RTA is engaged in two planning projects in the Buckeye area. One is a station area plan for the E. 116th Street light rail station. RTA is finalizing the station area plan, which includes a new station, street improvements, and a station area land use plan. This was funded by NOACA as part of its Transportation for Livable Communities Initiative (TLCI). RTA partnered with the Buckeye Areas Development Corporation on this."

 

"Funding from NOACA was just announced for the Buckeye/Woodhill station area plan. RTA again partnered with Buckeye Area Development Corporation and also St. Lukes Foundation to complete a station area plan for the Light Rail station at Buckeye/E. 93/Shaker/Woodhill intersection. It is anticipated that the Woodhill Station Plan will leverage 3rd party development and spur economic activity around this key  RTA received $75,000 from NOACA for this effort and also $10,000 from the St. Lukes Foundation. The planning process will begin this spring and be completed by the end of 2010."

 

RTA staff regularly monitors this forum because it (usually) has valuable insight into transit-related matters. If you want to ask us a question, please do so. An opinion based on false information is a waste of time for both the reader and the poster. Several reporters also monitor this site, so spreading false info here could have far-reaching effects.

 

On many days, my other duties keep me from logging on. If my presence is urgently needed, just send an e-mail to [email protected], and I will be happy to weigh in on the issue of the day.

 

I hope each of you had a happy and safe holiday, and may 2010 be a "fare" one for us all.

 

--- Jerry Masek, Media Relations Manager and Publications Manager, RTA

 

Thank you!  Please note, can you request that the trees that have grown in between the wall and the chain link jump fence, be unrooted?  It's really piss poor maintenance.  I'm not sure if its Cleveland responsibility or RTAs.

 

Have you let our UO RTA reps know your concerns?

 

Who are the UO RTA reps?

 

 

 

 

 

Edit: Robert Pence fixed typo in quote tag

 

Post here at this thread. They will be read by RTA reps. Be cordial and civil.

Ok, so then... I will ask...  Is posting from RTA's site itself about comments, ideas, suggestions, complaints, etc... or calling them personally a futile waste of effort? Is UO the place for this? I have plenty I could say...and none of it is a non-issue, but I would really prefer to keep its content between me and RTA.

Post here at this thread. They will be read by RTA reps. Be cordial and civil.

 

But who are they? Are they RTA employees who follow this thread or has UO gotten someone specially appointed as a rep to the Citizens Advisory Board? Its helpful to know a little about the position/power/authority of the person you are submitting comments or suggestions to...... In the same way that you would direct some problems/issues to your congressperson's local field office and others to their DC office.

Post here at this thread. They will be read by RTA reps. Be cordial and civil.

 

But who are they? Are they RTA employees who follow this thread or has UO gotten someone specially appointed as a rep to the Citizens Advisory Board? Its helpful to know a little about the position/power/authority of the person you are submitting comments or suggestions to...... In the same way that you would direct some problems/issues to your congressperson's local field office and others to their DC office.

 

I'm not trying to be mean, did you bother to read what Jerry wrote? :wtf:

 

Jerry has posted here and in the ECP thread.  There are also two other RTA employees that post here and are very help.  They've take our questions here and sent them to the appropriate people inside RTA and gotten back to us with official answers.

...I returned from Christmas vacation yesterday aboard the Red Line heading to Tower City.  At least I knew where I was going and I knew which stop I had to get off at.  I pity the new rider who had to comprehend the announcements coming from the driver of the train.  I don't think she was full awake half the time, and lazily hung up the radio before completing the name of the stop.  And it became sort of a game to see if she would mumble, "Door closin'," "Doors clo---(trailing off)," or just simply "door" before she shut them.

 

Maybe I got spoiled since I was returning from the Northwest, where I got to experience Portland's outstanding light-rail system with automated announcements that were clear and even gave details about how to connect to other trains if the stop allowed such a thing.  There were also LED screens aboard the trains that had the stops written out each time the train approached one.  Being someone from out of town, I appreciated the clear and accurate announcements so I knew exactly where I was and when I needed to get off the train.

 

What's the status of installing automatic announcements aboard our trains?  The Trolley's have a very good system (now that the bizarre-computer-voice-lady has been put out of service!)  How hard is this?

 

 

I'm not trying to be mean, did you bother to read what Jerry wrote? :wtf:

 

Jerry has posted here and in the ECP thread. There are also two other RTA employees that post here and are very help. They've take our questions here and sent them to the appropriate people inside RTA and gotten back to us with official answers.

 

I did read Jerry's post. He identified himself as "Media Relations Manager and Publications Manager, RTA". It was not clear to me that that meant he was UO's RTA rep or who the others might be. I'm just trying to have clear and complete information so that I can respond accordingly. Please try to have a little patience with a newbie who may have a few questions.

 

^ Automated announcements.. Very good idea! While living in Sydney, it made it so much easier. If one cannot properly enunciate and articulate what they're saying and sound like they're swallowing or sitting on the mic, such individual need not be announcing. Dirty stations, littered along right-of-way trackways....some bad drivers, unprofessional, bully-the-road drivers, rude drivers, poor security (one incident at W. 65th was totally unacceptable in any language on any budget) and many other issues.... Any RTA reps here want to discuss this personally or in more detail, please PM me.

 

Thank You

 

 

I'm not trying to be mean, did you bother to read what Jerry wrote? :wtf:

 

Jerry has posted here and in the ECP thread.  There are also two other RTA employees that post here and are very help.  They've take our questions here and sent them to the appropriate people inside RTA and gotten back to us with official answers.

 

I did read Jerry's post. He identified himself as "Media Relations Manager and Publications Manager, RTA". It was not clear to me that that meant he was UO's RTA rep or who the others might be. I'm just trying to have clear and complete information so that I can respond accordingly. Please try to have a little patience with a newbie who may have a few questions.

 

 

He works for RTA.  I have patience, I'll suggest reading this thread to understand.  or looking at Jerry's contact information, by clicking his name.

I would gladly record the RTA train accouncements... and I won't even demand a royality!  ;)

 

I know this forum is about RTA, but this helps illustrate my point.  It's a cute little video about Portland's bus system getting some automated announcements... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZWiRaeaQkY

 

I think it's pretty cool their transit system has a YouTube video service like this... they have more videos, too.  I don't suspect RTA has any money set aside for something like this, dare I ask??  :wink2:

^ I offer that as well..  I do some voiceover anyway. It would be fun.

 

the redline and trolleys should all have automated human voice recorded announcements now - if not, then something is broken and consider reporting train number or time/day/direction.  blue/green lines and healthline automated human voice announcements should be coming as well.   

 

I know this forum is about RTA, but this helps illustrate my point.  It's a cute little video about Portland's bus system getting some automated announcements... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZWiRaeaQkY

 

the ARRA funds that RTA received recently for the enhanced turn signal warnings is the same type of equipment (mainly external speakers) that are needed for external stop announcing.  once the speakers are fully installed, i expect you will see external stop announcments as well.  CTA has had this for a while. 

Will do.  Thanks for the tip!

^ I have always thought the turn signal warnings are overkill/not really as necessary as competent/safe drivers. In fact, I wrote about this to them as well. I do not want to post on here as to why, as that can be a thread in itself--but I expressed why they actually present unseen potential problems---as did many citizens in San Francisco with a similar system. Anyone care to see that, pm me.

I noticed that the rapid station on East 55th near I-490 is under construction.  Anyone have any details about when it will be completed and opened?"

 

You have the right place. Keep checking the page and the text. It will be updated as needed.