Here's my quote from the UO luncheon I missed:

 

Man, I wish I could have been there....well, here's my story if it matters:

 

I boarded the Red Line at the University Circle stop at 11:45, which I then thought I may be a little late.  Once we reach the E. 55th stop (which took a painful 20min), we're told that RTA has annonced all rapids all shutting down due to a computer problem.  (JMasek...there's not a manual system as well?)  Soo... we're told to get off and wait for a shuttle bus.  After waiting a while, I decided it would be a good idea to try and catch the Cedar bus instead--I missed by one block (saw it drive past and just missed running after it) .  I then tried the number 6, got to an island, about E.60, I was skipped because I wasn't on the other side of the street??  At this point it was 12:40, so I decided to eat a good lunch at Gallucci's, which was delicious!

 

Sorry to everyone--I did try!

 

JMasek, what happened with the rapids today??

 

I can take this one, since I was the one who posted the earlier alert, followed by the "All Rail Running Normal Schedules" message after the incident ended.

 

In a nutshell, we had a contractor working on the line who didn't follow proper procedure, and wound up inadvertently disrupting our rail signalling system. Without appropriate signalling capability, the safest thing for us to do was come to a halt on the system, which we did for a period of time while the problem was investigated and resolved. This was an electrical problem, not a computer problem, per se -- no juice, no signals.

 

The original disruption was under an hour, and we had replacement coaches dispatched to the rail stations in fairly short order in case things ran longer. Once it was clear what had happened and how quickly it would be resolved, the replacement coaches were pulled back (some of them ran a single run, since they were already out there and could handle the backup that developed). Ancillary delays resulting from the stoppage lasted until about 2:30pm.

 

FYI, the header on the main riderta.com page is updated in what is as close to real time as possible, so take a peek at it from time to time. I also make certain to time- and/or datestamp items of a transient nature such as yesterday's rail incident. Since the incident has passed, I've now removed the "Normal Schedules" message.

I hope RTA is billing the contractor for the expense involved.

Have you guys seen the transit hate in the comments on this PD article?

 

http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2008/03/rta_cops_can_now_write_parking.html

 

AMN welcome.   :wave: :wave:

 

Most of here are cleveland.bomb "refugees".  I don't think any of us post there on a regular basis any longer.

 

I posted in the RTA thread today and that was the first time I'd posted on site in ages.  I just couldn't overlook the incorrect information.

 

Hmmm....sounded like opposition to the transit cops authority, not "transit hate".  Someone involved in an argument and running here for reinforcements? 

 

It did remind me of how we used to call UCPD the "Dream Police", because they had no arrest powers they could only detain.

 

I think most forums in the Cleveland area are made up of cleveland.com refugees.  We occasionally have to get their mods to pull one of our "insider exclusive" stories from The Orange and Brown Report.  I will say they seem to be pretty good about it.

Hmmm....sounded like opposition to the transit cops authority, not "transit hate".  Someone involved in an argument and running here for reinforcements? 

 

I don't generally post on internet forums. Arguing on the internet -- especially with the less thoughtful commenters on cleveland.com -- doesn't seem to be a good use of my brain power.

 

I was a tad shocked at the seeming hatred of buses and their purpose in our community -- probably naively so. I'm also someone who still gets his news primarily from the printed page, not the internet (which doesn't include comments).

 

That sad, I've enjoyed reading here where there is a lot of thought put into discussing urban issues.

Personally, I didn't see any of the thread as hate for the buses, The ire seemed directed at the RTA police, specifically the ticketing of "jaywalkers" on Euclid.  I would hope that the main priority of the RTA police is protecting the riders, not revenue enhancement, and that's certainly a fair topic for discussion

 

The sole exception seemed to be the guy talking about the #6 line. 

 

Quite frankly, back in the '80s I'd let the 6 go by and catch the 9.  They were inevitably less crowded and got downtown faster.  Which, along with the inexplicable lack of a rapid stop convenient to CC, is the whole point of the Silver Line, isn't it?

 

 

 

Following up on an earlier post I made here, I rode one train and two buses on Wednesday and did not pay a single fare.  Each time, I was told that the fare box was not taking cards.  I use the 5 ride "dip" variety.  I'd estimate that somewhere around 1/3 of my trips have been gratis since the new fare boxes were installed.  I'm not sure how widespread the problem is, but they're losing a percentage of my money and presumably a lot more!  Any insights from the RTA folks?

Following up on an earlier post I made here, I rode one train and two buses on Wednesday and did not pay a single fare.  Each time, I was told that the fare box was not taking cards.  I use the 5 ride "dip" variety.  I'd estimate that somewhere around 1/3 of my trips have been gratis since the new fare boxes were installed.  I'm not sure how widespread the problem is, but they're losing a percentage of my money and presumably a lot more!  Any insights from the RTA folks?

 

I can take your money if it would make you feel better.

Following up on an earlier post I made here, I rode one train and two buses on Wednesday and did not pay a single fare.  Each time, I was told that the fare box was not taking cards.  I use the 5 ride "dip" variety.  I'd estimate that somewhere around 1/3 of my trips have been gratis since the new fare boxes were installed.  I'm not sure how widespread the problem is, but they're losing a percentage of my money and presumably a lot more!  Any insights from the RTA folks?

 

You should do the right thing and tear your next 5 trip card up after only using it twice  :wink:

Heads up on an extremely important piece of legislation...

 

COLUMBUS – State Senator Capri S. Cafaro (D-32-Hubbard) has introduced a bill strongly supported by the Ohio Public Transit Association (OPTA).

 

Senate Bill 300 would create a task force to study Ohio’s public transportation funding, and issue a report by June 30. It has been assigned to the Highway and Transportation Committee, where Cafaro is a member. She also serves as the Senate Assistant Minority Whip.

 

OPTA support

 

“This legislation is long overdue, and we salute Senator Cafaro for her foresight in introducing this bill,” says Joe Calabrese, President of OPTA and General Manager of the Greater Cleveland RTA.

 

“Because public transit dollars come from the General Fund, we have taken far more than our share of cuts in recent years. Every major transit system in Ohio is either laying off employees, reducing service, or both. With gas costs at more than $3 a gallon, now is the time to expand public transit service, not reduce it. We need to find a dedicated funding source, and this bill will help us to do just that.”

 

Calabrese said that from 2001- 2006, funding from the State was reduced by 63 percent, while the cost of diesel fuel rose more than 300 percent. Ohio funding for public transit is less than 5 percent of amount dedicated in neighboring states with similar populations.

Task Force duties

 

According to the legislation, the task force would:

· Review public transportation funding in Ohio

· Study the adequacy of Ohio’s public transportation funding

· Study the need for a stable, dedicated source of funding

· Evaluate state funds spent by state agencies that provide transportation services

· Issue a report to the Governor and General Assembly by June 30, and then disband.

 

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), which oversees public transit in Ohio, is assembling its own task force to study the same issues.

 

Task Force make-up

 

Under the Cafaro legislation, the 18 Task Force members would include:

· Six members of the General Assembly

· Directors of four state departments

· Two members of the public

· President of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce

· A representative of a senior advocacy group

· A representative of a disability advocacy group

· Three OPTA members – one each from a large urban system, a small urban system and a rural system.

 

The Task Force would be chaired by two of the state legislators. Meetings would start within 30 days of the final appointment.

 

The legislation has 10 co-sponsors:

· John Boccieri (D-33, New Middletown)

· Eric H. Kearney (D-9, Cincinnati

· Lance T. Mason, (D-25, Cleveland) Minority Whip

· Dale Miller (D-23, Cleveland), Ranking Minority Member, Highway and Transportation Committee

· Ray Miller (D-15, Columbus), Minority Leader

· Sue Morano (D-13, Lorain)

· Tom Sawyer, (D-28, Akron)

· Shirley Smith (D-21, Cleveland), Assistant Minority Leader

· Steve Stivers (D-16, Columbus)

· Tom Roberts (D-5, Trotwood)

 

Someone mentioned the new wayfinding signage on the Towercity SilverLine station.  While I don't believe this is all the station related signage, the currently displayed stuff is also on stations in the CSU campus area.

 

Sorry if the pics are oriented the wrong way - the computers giving fits this morn.

 

 

 

One last picture of a signage element for which the purpose is likely a map that due to the bulk of the structure, must at least be a back lit map.  J Masek, can you please clarify?

 

Also, at this station (SW quadrant of public square), the sign is facing Euclid.  Shouldn't it be facing the opposite direction?

I think I've got a stiff neck now. Thanks Guv!! ;)

yeah, seriously Guv...

 

And my guess on the signs is that the side you showed would be ideal for advertising or PSA's like the one on their now.  The map would go on one of the other two sides.  That's my guess anyway.

The map would go on one of the other two sides.  That's my guess anyway.

 

Well, that's the problem.  There aren't any other sides.  It's basically a BIG curvy metal box on a metal pole, with only ONE face.  I can't figure out why the box is so bulky.  Even a lighting system wouldn't take up that much bulk. 

 

Maybe someone from RTA can answer?

I will try to check on this today.

Maybe it is bulky because it has the ability to display multiple signs on some kind of rotation system?

I am posting this message to request volunteers for a group that has been designated to test the implementation of RTA's route and schedule data on Google Transit.

 

If you are not familiar with the service, Google Transit is very similar to our own web-based trip planner, in that it allows a person to specify starting and ending points and desired time of travel (either arrival or departure), and be presented with a suggested trip itinerary. Google provides driving directions throughout the world, and provides transit directions as suggested alternatives in those communities where the transit agency makes their data available in Google's required format.

 

This service is provided at no cost to the participating agencies, because Google derives advertising revenue from suggested destinations or other searches that get conducted in the course of using the service. Since these directions are presented as an alternative whenever driving directions are requested, there is tremendous potential for conversion and acquisition of new customers by RTA.

 

In the interest of ensuring that we have the most thorough understanding of what Google's service can and can not do, and that the data we provide them is clear, comprehensive, and accurate, I have arranged a closed "beta test" of the service with our most current schedule data. This test requires a valid Google ID to participate. If you are interested in participating, please send an e-mail to [email protected] with the following details:

 

1. Your urbanohio.com username

 

2. Your Google username (username only, NOT your password)

 

3. A brief sentence or two about you use of and familiarity with RTA's services

 

*** KEEP IN MIND, AS A CLOSED TEST, THIS INFORMATION IS NOT YET READY TO BE SHARED WITH CUSTOMERS ***

 

If you do not log in to Google, or try to use an account that is not authorized for testing, any transit search will yield the message "Your search for transit directions from <origin> to <destination> appears to be outside our current coverage area."

 

I will contact people who are authorized to test the service. Once you are signed in, you will be able to plot trips between any origin and destination in our service area, at any time, on any day.

 

For testing purposes, I would ask that everyone keep a written record of trips you have tried, results that have been returned (these can be copied and pasted from Google), and any irregularities that you encounter. Make you testing meaningful -- use trips you are unfamiliar with, use trips you know to be difficult or impossible, and be as creative in your requests as you can think to be (because our customers certainly will be).

 

A few caveats to be aware of:

 

1. At this time, Google only has data for our bus service (all service, including circulators, trolleys, and school supplemental). Rail service data should be incorporated into the mix later this week or early next week. I will announce when rail data is available.

 

2. While I encourage testing with trips that you have tried in our existing trip planner, please keep in mind that this is a different service, and uses different formulas to arrive at its results. I would ask that you judge the system on its own merits, and do not expect to make direct comparisons between the results returned. Of course, if you judge the quality of results returned from one to be subjectively "better" than the other, I'd like to know that, and let me know what aspect you think is better (fewer transfers, shorter travel time, more options, more/less walking, etc...).

 

3. The data that has been supplied to Google consists of stops, routes, and the times that given routes service designated stops. We do not yet have the capability to provide Google with path data. What this means is that when a trip is plotted, while the path followed should generally resemble the path taken by the particular route, it will not be exact. This is especially true in areas where the recorded stops are few and far between, such as outlying suburbs or areas where community circulators double back or intersect their own route.

 

4. Google's address matching is very forgiving in terms of not requiring the use of street descriptors (street, avenue, etc...), and in fact does very well with just an address number, street name, and zip code. If you run across any addresses that consistently do not return matches regardless of the form in which they are entered, please let me know.

 

5. Since this is a third-party service that is provided at no cost, customizability is basically nonexistent. Suggestions are appreciated and will be communicated, but there's no guarantee of implementation.

 

6. My timetable for completing testing is April 18. Ideally, I'd like for us to "go live" with this data prior to Earth Day, which is April 22.

 

Thank you all for participating in the testing of this service. I look forward to your feedback. Please do not hesitate to contact me (via the e-mail address or phone number below) if you have any questions.

 

Mike Cermak

Business Applications Analyst

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority

1240 W. 6th St.

Cleveland, OH  44113

[email protected]

1-216-566-5158

Just an FYI, jmasek will be on vacation, and probably incommunicado, until Monday, April 14. When he returns, please be sure to wish him and his wife a happy anniversary. I'll be his stunt double for the next couple of days (though I'll be away from the office myself on Thursday, April 10).

 

I'm still actively soliciting for volunteers (victims?) to test Google Transit. The prevailing silence so far has been deafening, and somewhat disappointing. Don't be shy...

Can I volunteer even though I don't live in Cleveland anymore?

Can I volunteer even though I don't live in Cleveland anymore?

 

absolutely, I'd welcome anyone with a degree of familiarity with the area and our system, especially someone who can give an outsider's perspective and would have to rely on comparison to printed schedules to judge validity of the results returned... all you need is a Google ID, as per previous posting... get your info to me and I'll get you on board

Check your junk e-mail? I submitted an e-mail but got no response.

Check your junk e-mail? I submitted an e-mail but got no response.

 

yeah, and I sent mine this morning (FYI)

JMasek,

 

Has there been any maps coming out in the near future that show the typical "Cleveland Rapid Transit System Map" with the health line incorporated?

 

I'm thinking of the larger map usually on display in red line vehicles above the door, or by the conductor.

http://www.riderta.com/nu_newsroom_releases.asp?listingid=1156

 

Tuesday, April 15, 2008                         

 

RTA Board approves Proof of Payment Fare System

 

CLEVELAND – During the Regular Meeting of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Board of Trustees, the body approved a resolution to amend the rates of fares charged on RTA.

 

The amended resolution requires passengers to have in their possession proof of purchase of a valid paid fare whenever present in any facilities or vehicles that have been restricted to passengers with a pre-purchased fare. Any person found without proof of a valid, paid fare is in violation of this requirement and shall be charged a Violation Fare equal to the cost of the applicable monthly Bus/Rapid pass.

 

The proof of payment fare system will take effect later this year.

APTA NEWS RELEASE

 

Senator McCain’s Gas Tax Holiday Would Hurt The Economy,

Don’t Cut Transportation Funds

 

Now is the time for leadership on transportation issues, not pandering to voters with an alleged  “quick fix” to the economy through the suspension of federal gas taxes through the summer months. With gas prices at an all time high, it is an easy thing to suggest the removal of the gas tax.  However, stating that the suspension of gas taxes from Memorial Day to Labor Day ostensibly to help our economy hides the real truth -- that America’s transportation is intertwined with our high standard of living and prosperity. To cut back transportation infrastructure investment endangers, not boosts, our economy, our jobs and our way of life.

 

The truth is that gas prices are high because the cost of oil is high; they’re not high because of the federal gas tax. The truth is that we need the federal gas tax to pay for the much-needed highway and public transportation infrastructure.

 

Do we really want our bridges to fall down? No.

 

Do we want to see bus routes and train lines cut? No.

 

Americans are used to their independence and want their transportation systems to not only be maintained, but improved and expanded.

 

While we need new ideas for economic growth and prosperity, the three-month gas tax elimination proposal is simply a short-sighted band-aid that would have little impact on the average American, who, according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), would only save $28, an amount that doesn’t even begin to cover one gas fill-up for many Americans.

 

With the summer construction season nearly upon us, now is certainly not the time to suspend the federal funding that pays for the construction and maintenance of our country’s highways and public transportation. To suspend the federal gas tax from Memorial Day to Labor Day would result in only making our economic situation worse, causing more Americans to lose their jobs.

 

Additionally, this proposal by Senator McCain also runs counter to the public demand for more public transportation. Last year, 10.3 billion trips were taken on public transportation – the largest ridership number in 50 years. At a time when more and more Americans are using public transportation to beat the high cost of gas, the federal government needs to increase its investment in public transportation. If instead, the gas tax was suspended for the summer, it would eliminate $1.4 billion of federal funding for public transportation and severely restrict the industry’s ability to add and improve transit services for a growing number of Americans.   

 

The Congressional Budget Office projects that the Highway Trust Fund, which finances the highway and public transit infrastructure, could become insolvent as early as next year. Senator McCain’s proposal will even further negatively impact the Highway Trust Fund, causing it to become insolvent even faster. 

 

The federal gas tax has not been raised since Oct. 1, 1993, but the demands on our roads and public transportation systems have continued to grow. Maintaining and expanding our transportation systems that meet the needs of our growing population is essential.  The presidential candidates should be voicing their solutions for meeting the transportation needs of the future and dismissing any proposals, such as the “gas tax holiday” proposed by Senator McCain,  that might be popular in the short-term but disruptive in the long term. 

Check this out

 

Washington-area transportation officials are pushing a plan to run buses on the shoulders of the region's highways and other major roads, allowing the vehicles to drive around congestion and go to the head of the line at traffic signals.

 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/16/AR2008041603674.html

Are there been any maps coming out in the near future that show the typical "Cleveland Rapid Transit System Map" with the HealthLine incorporated? I'm thinking of the larger map usually on display in Red Line vehicles above the door, or by the operator.

 

At this time, all energies are being put into finishing the construction and planning the grand opening on the weekend of Oct. 25 I am sure maps will be updated, but I have no timeframe.

Well.... Jerry's back!!!

 

(welcome back Jerry!)

To address some past questions....each HealthLine station has a kiosk for public information. Right now, that kiosk contains a BEST poster. Later, that kiosk will contain a system map. Yes, it is back-lit. No, it does not contain electrical equipment.

A document was posted on the site yesterday that many of you may find to be a good read (and it could stimulate some conversation) -- the Master Plan for the E 120 Rapid Station redevelopment, as prepared for RTA by Project for Public Spaces, Inc. et al.

 

It's a large (nearly 16MB, 150 pages) PDF file, and can be found here: http://www.riderta.com/majorprojects/e120/GCRTA%20Little%20Italy%20E120th%20Station%20Master%20Plan.pdf

^OMG- 150 pages, I can't wait to dig in- thanks!

Great info, JeTDoG.  Impressive.

Some earthy news for Earth Day.

 

The new Rapid Transit Vehicle (RTV) for the HealthLine on Euclid Avenue will be on display at Earth Fest, Sunday, April 20, from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., at the Metroparks Zoo. It will be parked in the main lot just east of the Rain Forest. It's 63 feet long, so it should be easy to find. You can take photos, kick the tires, and walk through the interior. RTA staff will be there to answer your questions, AND JetDog will be there in person from noon-2 p.m.

 

From APTA, here is Earth Day news from other transit sytems, along with some environmental tidbits that may surprise you.

   

Make Earth Day Your Public Transportation Day

 

Question:  What is the connection between public transportation and climate change?  Answer:  Public transportation is part of the solution to helping reduce greenhouse gases.  In fact, thanks to public transportation our country’s carbon footprint is reduced by 37 million metric tons – the equivalent of 4.9 million households using electricity in a year.

 

Public transportation is a green industry and transit agencies  are working to make it greener. For example, this year St. Cloud Metro Bus (St. Cloud, MN) has unveiled a bus powered by recycled deep fryer vegetable oil and Metro Transit (Minneapolis, MN) will power its Hiawatha rail line with wind energy.

 

“Riding public transportation is one of the most powerful weapons Americans have in combating global climate change,” said APTA President William W. Millar. “We encourage everyone to make a statement this Earth Day, April 22, and take public transportation.”

 

An individual switching to public transit can reduce his or her daily carbon emissions by 20 pounds; that’s more than 4,800 pounds in a year, a figure that is more than the combined carbon emissions reduction that comes from weathering your home and using energy efficient appliances and environmentally-friendly light bulbs.

 

If just one commuter of a household switches from driving to using public transportation, the household’s carbon footprint will be reduced by 10 percent.  If a household gives up its second car altogether, a household can reduce carbon emissions by 30 percent.

 

Public transportation agencies across the country are joining in the celebration of Earth Day on April 22 with a variety of green initiatives and activities aimed at raising awareness and improving the environment.

 

For example, in honor of Earth Day, a bus powered by recycled vegetable oil, a light rail powered by wind, a carbon calculator, and an Earth Week Challenge will showcase public transportation at its “greenest.”

 

· St. Cloud Metro Bus (St. Cloud, MN) unveiled a 40-foot bus that is powered by a mixture of 80 percent recycled vegetable oil and 20 percent diesel fuel.  It is believed that this is the first transit bus system in the nation to use waste vegetable oil to power a public transit bus.

· Metro Transit (Minneapolis, MN) will power the entire Hiawatha light rail system by wind on Earth Day.

· Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (Cincinnati, OH) is introducing a new carbon calculator on their website www.go-metro.com .

· Centre Area Transportation Authority (State College, PA) along with Penn State University is challenging students, faculty, and staff to reduce their fuel consumption by 20 percent the week of April 20-26 as part of the first-ever Earth Week Challenge.

 

Hybrid buses, natural gas buses, and biodiesel fueled vehicles have gained in popularity in recent years with more than 1,500 hybrid buses and buses using alternative fuels in service nationwide. 

· Sun Metro (El Paso, TX) will promote natural gas powered vehicles and will announce that their fixed route fleet will be 100 percent natural gas powered in early 2009.

· Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Houston, TX) will showcase its new hybrid bus, along with demonstrating new hybrid features at the Houston Green EXPO, Sustainable Energy and Green Building Consumer Event.

· Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (Toledo, OH) will fuel all their buses with B20 biodiesel for Earth Day.

· Metro (St. Louis, MO) will display a biodiesel bus at the St. Louis Earth Day Festival.

 

Special announcements and environmentally friendly products were timed to coincide with Earth Day celebrations.

· Metropolitan  Transit Authority (New York, NY) announced several new sustainability initiatives earlier this week and will debut limited edition “green” MetroCards on Earth Day.

· Metrolink (Los Angeles, CA) will unveil their new “greener” locomotives on Earth Day.

· Metro (Los Angeles, CA) is sponsoring a free Earth Day rock concert at Union Station where information on reducing your carbon footprint will be provided by various organizations.

 

Some public transportation systems are offering free rides to highlight their services, while other transit systems are sponsoring give-aways and drawings to thank riders.

· Muncie Indiana Transit System (Muncie, IN) is offering free rides on all of their buses on Earth Day.  From 6-9 a.m. WLBC Radio will host its morning show from a bus route, featuring a variety of special guests including the Muncie mayor.

· City of Colorado Springs Transit Services Division/Mountain Metropolitan Transit (Colorado Springs, CO) will offer free Earth Day rides on both their Mountain Metro fixed-route and FrontRange Express (FREX) commuter bus service

· Gold Coast Transit (Oxnard, CA) is distributing free passes for the new express service from Ojai and will display a CNG bus at local events.

· Lane Transit District (Eugene, OR) will offer free shuttle service from Eugene Transit Station to a community Earth Day event. A bus tour of green roof applications will be available and “green” shopping bags will be given away by LTD.

· Capital District Transit Authority (Albany, NY) is passing out 5000 recycled paper flower seed packets which serve as a free pass for the bus, the seeds can then be planted.   CDTA partnered with local businesses to help distribute the flower packets.

· Greater Bridgeport Transit Authority (Bridgeport, CT) will give away 3,000 free all-day bus passes printed on paper infused with flower seeds.  GBTA worked with partners in the community to distribute the passes.

· Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (Providence, RI) partnered with Roger Williams University to celebrate the entire month of April as the university offered all students, faculty, and staff complimentary RIPTA monthly passes.

· Bay Area Rapid Transit, BART, (Oakland, CA) will be giving away $500,000 worth of coffee to morning commuters.

· Transit Authority of River City (Louisville, KY) will have a drawing for prizes for University of Louisville students and staff who ride transit. 

· Capital Metro (Austin, TX) is partnering with Keep Austin Beautiful and their “Austin’s got a Brand New Bag” campaign. Transit riders who turn in five or more plastic shopping bags at selected bus stops will receive a free reusable Capital Metro “i-Ride” shopping bag. 

· Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority (Washington, DC) is rewarding people for saving 20 pounds of carbon emissions by riding public transportation on Earth Day, by giving chocolate bars to riders outside two stations.

 

Finally, numerous transit agencies are either sponsors of local Earth Day events or participating in an Earth Day event by offering information about transit and its benefits to the environment.  Some additional transit agencies participating in Earth Day events include: 

· Central Ohio Transit Authority (Columbus, OH)

· Charlotte Area Transit System (Charlotte, NC)

· Clemson Area Transit (Clemson, SC)

· GO Transit (Toronto, ON)

· Interurban Transit Partnership, “The Rapid” (Grand Rapids, MI)

· Port Authority (Pittsburgh, PA)

· The T (Fort Worth, TX)

· The Big Blue Bus (Santa Monica, CA)

 

Inside RTA is a four-page publication for community leaders and elected officials. The April issue has been posted. Enjoy. :clap:

 

www.riderta.com/PDF/InsideRTA/Insider_4-08.pdf

FROM THE TOD-THREAD

 

Despite his good impressions of downtown, he was very critical of the rapid ride in from the airport.  He said that the directions from the terminal to the airport rapid station weren't very clear, and he didn't feel very safe on the ride in.  He complained about the appearance of many of the stations, the graffiti he passed along the way, and the lack of any liveliness around the stations.  So he wasn't likely to recommend the RTA from the airport and wasn't likely to take it again himself.

 

Safe or dirty or not -- those were his impressions.

 

If we Clevelanders want to make a good impression on our out-of-town guests, we really need to continue to make some improvements along the rapid line to the airport.  And one piece of that will be to continue to pursue TOD opportunities at every station between the airport and Tower City.  It really is important that the city and the region and RTA work together to make sure we make a good first impression to visitors coming into the city.  We're not there yet, but I hope we keep working on it.

 

 

I'm a little confused and I need some clarity.  Everyone's "experience" or "point of view" is different, but I wonder if you could give more detail or did you ask more questions.  What was your response to this?

 

Jerry, is the "airport signage" an AIRPORT issue or an RTA issue??  Many of us have commented on that "language" used in the terminals.  It needs to be changed.  How do we help RTA accomplish that?  Other than the "language" how was were the directions unclear?  :?

 

I'd also like to understand what this person level of "safe" is.  Is it safe as, "I really didn't know where I was going, so I better stay alert?"  I normally driver, so I'm not accustomed to taking public transportation or I see people of all different races, ethnic background, etc and I'm uncomfortable?

 

Lastly, how can a person on the train tell what the entire area (I'll use a five block radius) near the stations is like.  The above ground stations are all surrounding by parking lots.  Yes the trench the train runs in could be cleaned up and graffiti removed.  However, the majority of systems across the country (BOS, NJ, Philly, NYC, Chi, etc.) are in a cut and have much worse graffiti and trash in between stations than Cleveland.  (this is why I asked if the person took public transportation regularly)

 

I'm not trying to be an Cleveland apologist, as the riders points should not be overlooked, but at the same time, is the riders expectation(s) realistic?

I'm interested in hearing CH Jake's feedback to your questions.

I ride the rapid about once a month and I still have the same type of anxieties, especially late at night. Basically, if I would not feel comfortable walking in the area of the rapid stop, I get nervous riding through there. Its hard to know which stops are in "bad" neighborhoods so mostly I feel like I'm on the lookout. Still, the worst offenders are not homeless people or criminals at all really as much as roudy bands of kids with nothing better to do screwing with you when youre by yourself.

 

Other than that, there is the "exact change" anxiety which I can't get over. In life I never use cash and I don't ride the rapid that often...leading me to carry a giant sack of change if I want to take the train. No change? No train.

 

In other cities, I try to use the train as much as possible over taxis and such and I can read a rail map just fine. Its just hard when you don't quite know the protocol, you need a LOT of help. Seriously, there should be a sign at the airport in baggage claim that reads:

 

GOING TO DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND?

RIDE THE RTA TRAIN

COST: $1.75, change provided at window

TIME: 25 minutes

Follow the red footprints to the ticket window! Safe and secure, even with luggage that includes souveniers and important crap you don't want stolen before that big meeting at the Key Tower.

 

Now that would increase ridership!

I ride the rapid about once a month and I still have the same type of anxieties, especially late at night. Basically, if I would not feel comfortable walking in the area of the rapid stop, I get nervous riding through there. Its hard to know which stops are in "bad" neighborhoods so mostly I feel like I'm on the lookout. Still, the worst offenders are not homeless people or criminals at all really as much as roudy bands of kids with nothing better to do screwing with you when youre by yourself.

 

Other than that, there is the "exact change" anxiety which I can't get over. In life I never use cash and I don't ride the rapid that often...leading me to carry a giant sack of change if I want to take the train. No change? No train.

 

In other cities, I try to use the train as much as possible over taxis and such and I can read a rail map just fine. Its just hard when you don't quite know the protocol, you need a LOT of help. Seriously, there should be a sign at the airport in baggage claim that reads:

 

GOING TO DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND?

RIDE THE RTA TRAIN

COST: $1.75, change provided at window

TIME: 25 minutes

Follow the red footprints to the ticket window! Safe and secure, even with luggage that includes souveniers and important crap you don't want stolen before that big meeting at the Key Tower.

 

Now that would increase ridership!

 

Ahh ... from an operation point of view, I highly doubt that would.  Having RTA prominently added to Hopkins website and ACCURATELY linked to travel sites would.  Having "universal" public transportation signage/language would.

 

Great "visual" concept though.

I ride the rapid about once a month and I still have the same type of anxieties, especially late at night. Basically, if I would not feel comfortable walking in the area of the rapid stop, I get nervous riding through there. Its hard to know which stops are in "bad" neighborhoods so mostly I feel like I'm on the lookout. Still, the worst offenders are not homeless people or criminals at all really as much as roudy bands of kids with nothing better to do screwing with you when youre by yourself.

 

Other than that, there is the "exact change" anxiety which I can't get over. In life I never use cash and I don't ride the rapid that often...leading me to carry a giant sack of change if I want to take the train. No change? No train.

 

In other cities, I try to use the train as much as possible over taxis and such and I can read a rail map just fine. Its just hard when you don't quite know the protocol, you need a LOT of help. Seriously, there should be a sign at the airport in baggage claim that reads:

 

GOING TO DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND?

RIDE THE RTA TRAIN

COST: $1.75, change provided at window

TIME: 25 minutes

Follow the red footprints to the ticket window! Safe and secure, even with luggage that includes souveniers and important crap you don't want stolen before that big meeting at the Key Tower.

 

Now that would increase ridership!

 

I agree there could be a better effort to make the RTA awareness higher at Hopkins.  If budgeted properly, I bet it would be a good investment for RTA in both the short term, but especially the long run. 

 

I have friends who live here on the eastside that have friends pick them up at the airport (many of which practically live on the UC rapid stops), but I have educated them!

RTA Opens Second Segment for Median Station Bus Operations

 

RTA will begin operating its Route #6 buses along the new median stations from East 55th Street to East 86th Street on April 27. This is the second segment to open up along Euclid Avenue. Median bus operations will now operate from East 17th to East 86th streets. Safely walk at the designated crosswalks to reach the platforms, as traffic patterns have changed. Jaywalking fines will be enforced.

 

For more information, call 216-771-4144.

 

:clap: 8-) :wave:

I have friends who live here on the eastside that have friends pick them up at the airport (many of which practically live on the UC rapid stops), but I have educated them!

 

I've people ask me for rides, and I tell them, "how about I drop you at at UC Stop and give you the fare". (when I used to live East side)

FROM THE TOD-THREAD

 

I'm a little confused and I need some clarity.  Everyone's "experience" or "point of view" is different, but I wonder if you could give more detail or did you ask more questions.  What was your response to this?

 

. . . .  Other than the "language" how was were the directions unclear?  :?

 

I'd also like to understand what this person level of "safe" is.  Is it safe as, "I really didn't know where I was going, so I better stay alert?"  I normally driver, so I'm not accustomed to taking public transportation or I see people of all different races, ethnic background, etc and I'm uncomfortable?

 

Lastly, how can a person on the train tell what the entire area (I'll use a five block radius) near the stations is like.  The above ground stations are all surrounding by parking lots.  Yes the trench the train runs in could be cleaned up and graffiti removed.  However, the majority of systems across the country (BOS, NJ, Philly, NYC, Chi, etc.) are in a cut and have much worse graffiti and trash in between stations than Cleveland.  (this is why I asked if the person took public transportation regularly)

 

I'm not trying to be an Cleveland apologist, as the riders points should not be overlooked, but at the same time, is the riders expectation(s) realistic?

 

I don't know whether the visitor's perception was realistic.  I rarely ride that line myself and have never felt that it was unsafe, although I have always been one of only a few riders at the times I've taken it. 

 

My response was that it was unfortunate that he felt it was unsafe and I tried to reassure him that it probably was safe.  I have not heard of any safety issues on that line (although again I'm a very infrequent traveler there so I could just be ignorant).  I don't know whether he takes public transit in Detroit and I don't know why he thought the signage wasn't clear enough. 

 

I was perfectly happy to talk to him about the things he did like about Cleveland's downtown (all the daytime activity on the street, all the construction, the variety of interesting architecture, the arcade, the theatres, East 4th, the ballpark, etc.), his business and the convention itself. 

 

Whether his perception was accurate or not, the fact that that was his perception made me think that we should be doing more to improve that gateway to the city. 

 

TOD between the airport and Tower City might be one piece of that.  It would bring more riders, which could improve a feeling of safety or reduce it, and would bring more reasons for someone to get off the train at some intermediate point and actually see some of the city outside of downtown and the airport. 

 

I also posted on the TOD board.

A simple cleanup would do wonders.  The amount of trash, including larger debris, along the line is shameful.

thanks

A simple cleanup would do wonders.  The amount of trash, including larger debris, along the line is shameful.

 

Some of the court community service activities used to have convicted persons cleaning up trash along the Rapid lines, just as they do along highways. But I haven't seen them along the rail lines in a while. Do they still do that, Jerry?

FROM THE TOD-THREAD

 

Despite his good impressions of downtown, he was very critical of the rapid ride in from the airport.  He said that the directions from the terminal to the airport rapid station weren't very clear, and he didn't feel very safe on the ride in.  He complained about the appearance of many of the stations, the graffiti he passed along the way, and the lack of any liveliness around the stations.  So he wasn't likely to recommend the RTA from the airport and wasn't likely to take it again himself.

 

Safe or dirty or not -- those were his impressions.

 

If we Clevelanders want to make a good impression on our out-of-town guests, we really need to continue to make some improvements along the rapid line to the airport.  And one piece of that will be to continue to pursue TOD opportunities at every station between the airport and Tower City.  It really is important that the city and the region and RTA work together to make sure we make a good first impression to visitors coming into the city.  We're not there yet, but I hope we keep working on it.

 

 

I'm a little confused and I need some clarity.  Everyone's "experience" or "point of view" is different, but I wonder if you could give more detail or did you ask more questions.  What was your response to this?

 

Jerry, is the "airport signage" an AIRPORT issue or an RTA issue??  Many of us have commented on that "language" used in the terminals.  It needs to be changed.  How do we help RTA accomplish that?  Other than the "language" how was were the directions unclear?  :?

 

I'd also like to understand what this person level of "safe" is.  Is it safe as, "I really didn't know where I was going, so I better stay alert?"  I normally drive, so I'm not accustomed to taking public transportation or I see people of all different races, ethnic background, etc and I'm uncomfortable?

 

Lastly, how can a person on the train tell what the entire area (I'll use a five block radius) near the stations is like.  The above ground stations are all surrounding by parking lots.  Yes the trench the train runs in could be cleaned up and graffiti removed.  However, the majority of systems across the country (BOS, NJ, Philly, NYC, Chi, etc.) are in a cut and have much worse graffiti and trash in between stations than Cleveland.  (this is why I asked if the person took public transportation regularly)

 

I'm not trying to be an Cleveland apologist, as the riders points should not be overlooked, but at the same time, is the riders expectation(s) realistic?

 

Good questions...here is my response.

 

First, I do not have time to monitor multiple threads. I monitor this one (I started it), and one for Euclid Corridor. So, if there is something on another thread that I should know about, I appreciate you calling it to my attention.

 

RTA has a good relationship with the staff at Hopkins Airport. Our GM and our Marketing Director meet with them several times a year. We have the same goal -- make sure that airport customers know all their ground travel options, so they can make intelligent choices.

 

There are RTA signs all over the Airport -- I know, because I had to take photos of them once several years ago. Of course, the situation could be improved. I think it is safe to say that those people who PREFER transit will always look for the transit option, and those people who have NEVER used transit will not think of using transit here. Transit forces you to think a bit, and it is much easier (especially when you are tired) to plop into the back seat of a taxi and recite the name of your hotel.

 

As for cleaning up the rail right-of-way, how many financial resources do you think RTA should devote to clean the illegal acts of other people, when history shows the areas will return to their state in just a few days? Our policy is to remove graffiti that is sexually or racially offensive asap. The rest, we tolerate, and we prosecute to the max.

Jerry, that last paragraph was way too defensive and unproductive. You know that a little creativity can put costs onto others. See my post prior to your last for an option for dealing with trash along rail rights of way.

A simple cleanup would do wonders.  The amount of trash, including larger debris, along the line is shameful.

 

Some of the court community service activities used to have convicted persons cleaning up trash along the Rapid lines, just as they do along highways. But I haven't seen them along the rail lines in a while. Do they still do that, Jerry?

 

Because you are in a corridor with live trains, all workers (even volunteers) have to be closely supervised. I expect you will see more cleanup efforts now that good weather is here.

Jerry,

 

Can you answer (or let us know the reason) why the language on the signage INSIDE THE AIRPORT for our mass transit (ie train) is not universal as in other cities around the world?

 

I wish I had a picture.

KJP and others

 

I was merely reciting RTA's policy and asking you to look at things a different way. The budget here is REALLY tight, but of course, you know that. An aggressive weekend of thorough graffiti cleaning can cost us thousands of dollars. Litter control is a different story, but over time, it can still be expensive, and both actions are illegal. STORY IDEA -- call around to various agencies, and add up how much tax dollars a year go into cleaning up illegal litter. There is a price to pay for being a pig, and I believe people need to know that.

 

Case in point -- Several years ago, there was a place near Edgewater Park that was being littered a lot. Residents complained to City Hall and to a TV station. The residents got City Hall to agree to clean up the lot once a week. They hailed it as a victory, and the TV reporter said he would check the situation later to make sure it was being done. He missed the whole point! Sure, City Hall can pay someone to visit the site every week, but that is money being taken away from a better use, like police and fire protection (or in our case, paying for bus and rail operators). How much did the City spend to clean up that one lot all summer? I do not know. Our high-quality broadcast journalists never thought to look at that part of the story. :-(

 

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