w28, how many cars made up that train?

 

It was only a 2 car affair, but right after the train left, the 2 car affair sitting on the Brookpark track opened its doors for the passengers that didn't make it on the last one.  There were also several waiting on the CUT Viaduct.  It seemed to be working rather efficiently.

However, RTA really has to do something about the CONSTANT starting and stopping between W25th and Terminal Tower.  I don't know if it is the fault of the light switchman, the driver, or the regulating system, but there is a problem, and I can't believe RTA hasn't figured out a way to remedy this situation.  There are cars that stop yards from the drop off point at Tower City and are then forced to start back up, and move the 15 feet to let passengers out.  It's just ridiculous.  I guess if this is the biggest thing I have to complain about, it's not that bad.  But considering my commute is W25th to downtown, my entire trip is somewhat frustrating.  Something is not working as effieciently as it could be and it seems like it could be an easy fix.

w28, how many cars made up that train?

 

It was only a 2 car affair, but right after the train left, the 2 car affair sitting on the Brookpark track opened its doors for the passengers that didn't make it on the last one.  There were also several waiting on the CUT Viaduct.  It seemed to be working rather efficiently.

However, RTA really has to do something about the CONSTANT starting and stopping between W25th and Terminal Tower.  I don't know if it is the fault of the light switchman, the driver, or the regulating system, but there is a problem, and I can't believe RTA hasn't figured out a way to remedy this situation.  There are cars that stop yards from the drop off point at Tower City and are then forced to start back up, and move the 15 feet to let passengers out.  It's just ridiculous.  I guess if this is the biggest thing I have to complain about, it's not that bad.  But considering my commute is W25th to downtown, my entire trip is somewhat frustrating.  Something is not working as effieciently as it could be and it seems like it could be an easy fix.

 

I noticed that on my last trip.  I then thought, maybe a shaker train is switching over from the waterfront line and causing us to start-and-stop.  It seems to happen right on the bridge where the cars in the middle line up for rushhour.

 

Jerry/Jetdog, is there a reason for this?

One of the train operators told me that this happens because freight trains are getting clearance in a way that messes up the Rapid despite the fact that RTA is supposed to get priority. I didn't totally understand what she meant -- I didn't understand how freight would affect that strip of track -- but I didn't press her for details either.

Whatever it is......  The drivers are crusing along, something goes "Beep, beep, beep" and they have to slow down/stop.  I've wondered about that ever since the first time I rode the rapid, cause I don't remember that happening in other cities.

It drives me up the wall.

I don't see freight operations having any effect whatsoever.  Sounds like that operator could be part of the problem...

It happens every day on the red line and I agree it's particularly bad between W25th and Tower City.  Sometimes we will sit there for several minutes and no other trains come out so it makes no sense.

One of the train operators told me that this happens because freight trains are getting clearance in a way that messes up the Rapid despite the fact that RTA is supposed to get priority. I didn't totally understand what she meant -- I didn't understand how freight would affect that strip of track -- but I didn't press her for details either.

 

Freight trains!!?? As far as I know, they don't share track w/ RTA (except, I guess, in connections to deliver train equipment on and off the line)... I'm as confused as you by her statement.

...

Whatever it is......  The drivers are crusing along, something goes "Beep, beep, beep" and they have to slow down/stop.  I've wondered about that ever since the first time I rode the rapid, cause I don't remember that happening in other cities.

 

The beep beep is the in cab signaling system telling them to slow down. I believe when they don't slow down enough (or fast enough) is when they have to then come to a complete stop (forced by the system) before continuing.

 

As an aside, I was on the blue line in Chicago last week and had the exact same experience twice, the train slowed and then had to stop completely and restart

Does RTA ever use 3-car trains during super-crush periods on the West Side (where, as far as I know, all stations can accomodate trains that long)?  It would make sense to me...

 

... also, no one ever addressed the issue of use of some 2-car blue/green line rush hour runs esp w/ the "gas" induced crowding.

So then the drivers are speeding?  I was hoping when they did all those red line track repairs a few years ago that it would get better, but I guess not.

Yes, but it's more than once.  It's stop.  Go 2 mph then it beeps again, come to complete stop.  Repeat.  Sit completely still for 15 seconds.  Train moves again, more beeping, more stopping, etc.  This continues the whole way in to tower city.

I think the combination of the signals not being reacted to quickly enough, regulating system being somewhat useless (I'm sorry, I hate these freaking things), and drivers just speeding up too quickly, causes these issues.

Yes, I agree it is particularly bad in and out of TC from the viaduct. I think that is definitely the system not the operator causing that. I know when I've been on the red line standing in front (where you can see the track ahead) there will often be a blue/green or another red line train in sight ahead which I'm guessing is part of the problem. I think the trains tend to get stacked up a bit during rush hour with the long boarding lines at stations. Maybe this will get better with POP.

It seems that, since they bought the expensive thing in the late 80s, RTA has never completely got a handle on those in-the-cab signals which is supposed to keep trains safe (although there's been a couple Red Line crashes since).  The sysemt often slows trains and drivers, often whom don't seem very experienced, jerk, lurch and slam the brakes sometimes bringing standing passengers to their knees... This latest problem on the viaduct, I'm unaware of; but it's not like issues I've seen over the years on other stretches of track.

It seems that, since they bought the expensive thing in the late 80s, RTA has never completely got a handle on those in-the-cab signals which is supposed to keep trains safe (although there's been a couple Red Line crashes since).  The sysemt often slows trains and drivers, often whom don't seem very experienced, jerk, lurch and slam the brakes sometimes bringing standing passengers to their knees... This latest problem on the viaduct, I'm unaware of; but it's not like issues I've seen over the years on other stretches of track.

 

clvlndr, we sometimes experience this on approacht to East 79 Street, going eastbound.  Luckily for us, they cut the cab signal and we continue on our merry way to SS.

Regular RTA riders: They're not reusable, but are the 5-trip cards impractical?  I've only ridden with monthly passes or cash fare, so I've never tried using them.

 

I only use 5-ride cards.  I started when my single-seat ride to work was split into a two-bus affair and I needed the built-in transfer that comes with the 5-ride.  My wife used to take the bus home on occasion and would have to transfer at Public Square and hated that she had to pay twice.  I set her up with a 5-ride card so she wouldn't have to.  So, they're great for those of us who use the system anywhere from 3 days/week to once a month... you don't have to worry about having exact change on you and you can get your transfer on.  Please keep them as an option!

As an aside, I was on the blue line in Chicago last week and had the exact same experience twice, the train slowed and then had to stop completely and restart

 

Wow, only twice...you were really lucky! 

Redbrick is correct. The cab signal system is an active system, not passive. It doesn't just display signals for the train operators to react to, it also will stop or slow trains when the operator doesn't respond to the signals. Any action by the signal system to slow or stop the train will be accompanied by that irritating beeping sound (some mainline railroad systems use an ear-piercing whistle just inches from the engineer's ears). The signal system, using coded electrical circuits in the rails, are picked up by the wheels and transmitted to a device in the train's cab that is connected to the power controls.

 

Nearly all rail lines (be they transit, freight or high-speed) whose rail traffic is governed by signal systems are separated into "blocks" of varying lengths. For freight lines and high speed lines, they can be 2-4 miles long. For transit lines, a block can be a mile or less in length. Trackside signals protect each block from trains entering an occupied block.

 

On the RTA rail system, crews can restrict the top speed of trains operating in a certain block, such as when trackwork or construction is occuring next to or above the tracks. So the normal speed limit on the Red Line of 60 mph can be reduced to 20 mph in a construction zone. If an operator tries to "push it" the cab signal system will beep and apply the train's brakes.

 

Ditto for coming into Tower City Center. There is a speed restriction for coming across the viaduct into downtown as the bridge has a 1-percent downgrade into the station. The speed restriction is coded into the block's track circuit so Red Line trains don't gain too much momentum coming down the grade and come barreling into the station.

 

Another factor is that Waterfront Line trains enter the Red Line between the viaduct and Tower City station which can slow a train.

 

Still another factor is that the Shaker trains that don't go onto the Waterfront Line layover on pocket tracks on the viaduct. And when they come out of those tracks and go into the Tower City station, they have to enter the Red Line track which is also the only eastbound track that goes through the station.

 

Lastly the pocket track that is between the station platforms on the Shaker side of the station can "pinch" inbound Red Line trains traveling in both directions. When the switch points for the pocket track are opened and lined for it, signals will turn red for the station's through tracks. So any Shaker train coming in or out of that pocket track could slow or stop a Red Line train if one is nearby.

 

Add to all of this an impatient RTA train operator who wants to push things or "test" the signal system see if he/she can inch the train forward or find out if an extra mile per hour or so can be had.

 

So I count five things that can slow or stop your Red Line train each morning and cause you to hear those nasty beeping sounds. Sorry for the long message, but that's what is causing it. I hope this helps explain things.

Thanks train expert!

As an aside, I was on the blue line in Chicago last week and had the exact same experience twice, the train slowed and then had to stop completely and restart

 

Wow, only twice...you were really lucky! 

 

Yeah, I know it can be must worse... we were riding after the morning rush. To bring it back to RTA  -- if the red line could run at speeds similar to the CTA trains (for certain stretches anyway) I think the trip from Hopkins to TC would take someting like 12 minutes...

I only use 5-ride cards.  I started when my single-seat ride to work was split into a two-bus affair and I needed the built-in transfer that comes with the 5-ride.  My wife used to take the bus home on occasion and would have to transfer at Public Square and hated that she had to pay twice.  I set her up with a 5-ride card so she wouldn't have to.  So, they're great for those of us who use the system anywhere from 3 days/week to once a month... you don't have to worry about having exact change on you and you can get your transfer on.  Please keep them as an option!

 

Interesting.  Not a perfect substitute for a refillable card, but sounds like a pretty easy way to avoid the exact change annoyance.

 

As for MTS's wish list for augmented rapid service:

 

1. As we've discussed here several time, changing bus lines into feeder routes is a great way to reduce passenger congestion because it will drive riders away in droves by turning one-seat rides to eastern and northern downtown into 3-seat rides.

 

2. RockandRoller, you should be jumping all over these rapid wish lists: if budget constraints are preventing improved bus service in your neck of the woods,  they should also be preventing improved rapid service...unless it's at the expense of the bus service (which might be inevitable if there isn't increased funding in our future).

Ahhh.  thanks KJP.  I didn't realize the Shaker stub track in TC would cause a delay. 

 

irritating, but your summation does help us understand "why?"

Ahhh. thanks KJP. I didn't realize the Shaker stub track in TC would cause a delay.

 

irritating, but your summation does help us understand "why?"

 

Especially because trains only run every 15 minutes......

Ahhh.  thanks KJP.  I didn't realize the Shaker stub track in TC would cause a delay. 

 

irritating, but your summation does help us understand "why?"

 

Especially because trains only run every 15 minutes......

 

but not during rush hour and the redline trains are basically running on the same track.

Thanks KJP on the refresher (I think you have answered this question a few times before- if not with such awesome thoroughness!).  I guess it's just part of the fun of having multiple lines sharing the same tracks.

 

2. RockandRoller, you should be jumping all over these rapid wish lists: if budget constraints are preventing improved bus service in your neck of the woods, they should also be preventing improved rapid service...unless it's at the expense of the bus service (which might be inevitable if there isn't increased funding in our future).

 

I don't really have much of a wish list.  I'm not sure I understand what "POP" is that everyone is referring to and I agree the current setup is confusing and time-consuming for all because it's different every place you board.  Where I get on, you pay at the attendant window and then go out and get the train (he/she of course does not have change).  Same thing at the other end (tower city).  There are machines or people to buy passes from at both locations.  This to me makes the most sense but I'm sure all the stations don't have machines.  If people have to pay when they board, you have the train sitting there with the door open waiting while everyone boards, so temperature control inside is lost (this is especially fun in the dead of winter) and everyone is waiting in line out in the elements while some boob fumbles with their crumpled dollar or figures out which slot to put the pass in.  I don't understand why cash money is accepted at all; if you have money, there should be a machine to put it into before you get on and buy a pass.  If there is a place to swipe it before proceeding to the platform, so much the better, but even if there isn't, at least everyone boarding would be doing the exact same thing and you wouldn't stand there out in the rain or snow while the one guy empties his change jar into the machine or another feeds crumpled up dollars into the machine and then has to get into a conversation with the driver about why he can't have change, which holds things up further.  If everyone paid before they got on, nobody would be required to board the front car if they were at a shorter stop where the whole train can't be accessed.  This would help with the crowded problem at the front of the train, at least in the short-term.

 

I buy a monthly pass.  It is hassle free and I don't have to buy a new one all the time or worry about exact change.  I don't use it that often for errands outside of work but occasionally I do, so it's good to have.  So I have no complaints about a 5-ride or 10-ride or whatever.

 

As to their increased costs and cutting service, well, I don't know what service cuts are planned to the redline but I'm sure I will figure out a way to make it work unless they cut service completely.  And as I told mr. rockandroller - even if the pass was $90 a month, I still wouldn't be able to drive to work and back every day at that price when you factor in gas and wear and tear on the car on top of parking.  If they cut it down to ONE train a day going in and out of downtown, I would adjust my work schedule to fit the train schedule.  If they cut service completely, then we would probably move closer to downtown.

 

Don't worry about RTA cutting the Red Line to from 80 trains a day to one or none. RTA has a significant investment in the Red Line. If RTA cut service to such a degree, I suspect they would have to give back the federal money they used to pay 80 percent of the cost of rebuilding/replacings stations all along the line. That ain't happening.

 

However, you may not be aware that as recently as the early 1980s, RTA ran Red Line trains every 10 minutes off-peak, 5 minutes peak. That was cut to every 12 minutes off-peak, 6 minutes peak in the late 1980s and through the 90s. Sometime around 2000, the service was cut again, this time to every 15 minutes off-peak and 7 or 8 minute peak.

 

Electrically powered RTA trains are not the source of the RTA rising fuel expenses. Instead, I would cut some of the circumferential transit routes out in the suburbs first, like the 68, 34, parts of the 94 and 35, and maybe some of the poorest-performing circulator routes (ie: West Shore). Those things are incredibly expensive, just on labor costs (which comprises two-thirds of RTA's operating budget). Now fuel costs are making these light-density routes less sustainable.

Don't worry about RTA cutting the Red Line to from 80 trains a day to one or none. RTA has a significant investment in the Red Line. If RTA cut service to such a degree, I suspect they would have to give back the federal money they used to pay 80 percent of the cost of rebuilding/replacings stations all along the line. That ain't happening.

 

However, you may not be aware that as recently as the early 1980s, RTA ran Red Line trains every 10 minutes off-peak, 5 minutes peak. That was cut to every 12 minutes off-peak, 6 minutes peak in the late 1980s and through the 90s. Sometime around 2000, the service was cut again, this time to every 15 minutes off-peak and 7 or 8 minute peak.

 

Electrically powered RTA trains are not the source of the RTA rising fuel expenses. Instead, I would cut some of the circumferential transit routes out in the suburbs first, like the 68, 44 and 40 and maybe some of the poorest-performing circulator routes. Those things are incredibly expensive, just on labor costs (which comprises two-thirds of RTA's operating budget). Now fuel costs are making these light-density routes less sustainable.

I remember when the Shaker Trains were every 8 minutes.  That was atleast until '91. In 93 I do remember them running every 10 minutes from Shaker Square to Tower City.

 

Why would they cut the 40?  I thought it was listed as one of the better routes and most used routes.  Or are you saying they would reduce the length of that particular line?

I meant the 34. Sorry!

I meant the 34. Sorry!

 

yeah, that line makes no sense to me.  it stops at parkland.  i could atleast continue down lee so it hits both train lines and turns around at chagrin.  but im not a planner and that probably wouldn't help move passengers.

However, you may not be aware that as recently as the early 1980s, RTA ran Red Line trains every 10 minutes off-peak, 5 minutes peak. That was cut to every 12 minutes off-peak, 6 minutes peak in the late 1980s and through the 90s. Sometime around 2000, the service was cut again, this time to every 15 minutes off-peak and 7 or 8 minute peak.

 

I was not aware.  I am aware they don't run as frequently as when I take trains in other cities, but Cleveland is not other cities so I just chalk it up to that.  I have a lot more problems with the delays and problems with buses than I do with the trains.  when I was a regular bus rider there were several routes that would come by with NUMEROUS buses while I was waiting for mine with maybe 1 passenger at best, while I'm waiting another 20 minutes.  I seem to think the 135 was one of the worst offenders.  It is from those days that my complaints stemmed about having to wait so long and stand to ride.  If these lines were cut, more buses could be running on the routes where there is clearly more demand.

However, you may not be aware that as recently as the early 1980s, RTA ran Red Line trains every 10 minutes off-peak, 5 minutes peak. That was cut to every 12 minutes off-peak, 6 minutes peak in the late 1980s and through the 90s. Sometime around 2000, the service was cut again, this time to every 15 minutes off-peak and 7 or 8 minute peak.

 

I was not aware.  I am aware they don't run as frequently as when I take trains in other cities, but Cleveland is not other cities so I just chalk it up to that.  I have a lot more problems with the delays and problems with buses than I do with the trains.  when I was a regular bus rider there were several routes that would come by with NUMEROUS buses while I was waiting for mine with maybe 1 passenger at best, while I'm waiting another 20 minutes.  I seem to think the 135 was one of the worst offenders.  It is from those days that my complaints stemmed about having to wait so long and stand to ride.  If these lines were cut, more buses could be running on the routes where there is clearly more demand.

 

....and therein lies the question.  Which routes have a need for more physical equipment?  None of us know the answer to that question.

I personally gave up on the bus and went to trains because I can't handle the hassle of missing and then waiting until god knows when. The trains are much more reliable.

I personally gave up on the bus and went to trains because I can't handle the hassle of missing and then waiting until god knows when. The trains are much more reliable.

 

Ditto that 100%.

When I move, I will put a priority on being near a Rapid AND a 24-hour transit route (most likely bus).

 

Being on the 81 (with a 23 as a backup) is great, but I wish I had a more convenient rail option as well.

 

I can think of a few spots along the 81 route that would work for me. I'll have to study the maps to see if there is a transit Mecca in Cleveland. (Outside of living near public square, that is...)

^Ohio City - the closer to the West Side Market, the better.

When I move, I will put a priority on being near a Rapid AND a 24-hour transit route (most likely bus).

 

Being on the 81 (with a 23 as a backup) is great, but I wish I had a more convenient rail option as well.

 

I can think of a few spots along the 81 route that would work for me. I'll have to study the maps to see if there is a transit Mecca in Cleveland. (Outside of living near public square, that is...)

 

Shaker Square!  Can't have any more transit options. 

– Two train lines (three train stops)

– The 48/48a 

– 12 on Larchmere

– 13 on Buckeye

I would think, and hopefully, Jerry will give a definitive answer, that there will be a "grace" period upon the system going live. Sure after that tourist and new/non traditional riders might make mistakes, but I would think/hope each situation would be dealt with on an individual basis.

 

Imagine you are sitting on a Rapid vehicle with 50 other people who paid. You did not. A Transit Police Officer discovers your "error". Is he just supposed to say, right in front of everyone, "that's ok...please pay next time." While I am sure there may be some special cases, I have the feeling that they will be few and far between. If you are caught outside the grocery store with shoplifted goods, what excuse can you offer? There will be plenty of signage around, telling you to buy your ticket before boarding. This is my take on it, but at time point, I am only an onlooker.

""This is where I personally feel RTA is making a huge mistake.  It's a public agency. What I would do:"

 

I promise to share your proposals with others. I do not mean to be flippant or disrespectful, but on the surface, your proposals defy logic.

 

RTA is in a situation where our buses and trains are too crowded, and you want us to bring in more riders.

 

RTA is facing a $20 million deficit in 2009, and you want us to increase service, thus adding to our expenses.

 

I will check for the cost difference in operating one-car train vs two-car train, but in my opinion, you are talking about putting a bandaid on a small cut, and the doctor is talking about amputating the arm.

 

Again, that is just my personal opinion as a close observer.

 

Your suggestions are greatly appreciated and will be passed along, I promise.

Does RTA compile or acquire true origin and destination data by zone or tract within the service area?

 

When the new farebox system is fully functional, we will have all that data.

"Its only been a few hours, JMasek is usually very responsive to questions, but something tells me he's got better things to be doing at 9PM, like not being in the office, not working and spending time with his family. "

 

Pope, thanks for your observation. At 4 p.m. July 2, I took over as Media Relations Manager, so I am now wearing two hats. Media calls come first, then I have to fill requests from the GM, Board members and the Marketing Director. Urban Ohio is still on the list, you've just moved down a notch. Welcome to the realities of transit funding. I am doing two jobs because of a hiring freeze. I could complain, but I am gainfully employed, and that sure beats the alternative. I expect to wear two hats for 4-6 months, maybe longer, maybe shorter...who has a crystal ball that is crystal clear?

" DID YOU OR ANY OTHER PASSENGER SAY ANYTHING TO THE CONDUCTOR??? why would the conductor do/say anything if NONE OF THE PASSENGERS made an attempt to speak with the conductor?

Riders have to take ownership in issues as well and not place all the responsibility on RTA employees."

 

All RTA operators are in constant contact with Transit Police. If the operator believed that the action endangered the lives of riders, he or she should have called Transit Police. You can too. 216-566-5211, the dispatcher is there 24/7.

 

Do not ever expect an operator to get personally involved. During training, they are told to deliver you to the destination as a first priority. If they got involved and got stabbed or beaten up, who would operate the bus or train? Handling sticky situations is difficult. (They may say "Sir, please sit down." ...but they can never say what they are actually thinking.)

 

During the trolley stabbing, the video camera caught the female operator leaving the trolley, and our good friends at TV-19 questioned this. Mike York went on camera and praised the operator for following her training. She pressed a button to notify police, she opened all doors so riders could exit, she left the trolley, and then she called police again on a cell phone.

 

If you question an operator's conduct, give us the details (time, route, vehicle, ID number if possible), and inform us. Thanks.

I disagree.  If nobody says anything, how is the operator, who should be concerned with driving to know if they is a real issue? Would saying something to the driver like, "there is a disgruntled passenger....." been beneficial?  In addition, as told here, the young lady who was allegedly "harassed" said nothing. What I mean by "ownership", is this is our system.  If you see something, say something - to an RTA employee.  I wasn't suggesting that one passenger, tell another passenger what to do.

 

Thanks. I agree 100 percent. If a "problem" rider is still on the train when I exit, I talk to the operator as I leave.

RTA routes in Lorain, Medina counties may be at risk

 

Friday, July 04, 2008

Sarah Hollander

Plain Dealer Reporter

 

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority is reassessing the service it provides outside of Cuyahoga County as it grapples with a looming deficit.

 

.......

 

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter:

 

[email protected], 216-999-4816

 

http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/cuyahoga/1215160381302090.xml&coll=2

Do they need an additional park n' ride further south near, or inside Brunswick or could they negotiate with a shopping center for some parking space?  As for Avon Lake:  North Shore Rail!  North Shore Rail!  North Shore rail has the potential to string together so many cool places along the route!  Westlake, Bay Village, Rocky River, Lakewood, etc. Detroit Shoreway/Cudell, and finally Downtown Cleveland.  All Aboard!

It's called the West Shore Corridor, but thanks for liking the project!

www.cleveland.com/printer/printer.ssf?/base/opinion/1215176103125140.xml&coll=2

 

Raising fares is better than cutting RTA service 

Friday, July 04, 2008

 

RTA fares have to rise

 

Under Joe Calabrese's leadership, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority has steered, deftly so far, through tight fiscal times.

 

Ridership has risen for five straight years and was up by 10 percent through May from the previous year. But because the RTA subsidizes 80 percent of every ride, when riders increase, the system merely loses a little less.

.........

the rta's 13yr run is remarkable and commendable.

 

however, with skyrocketing gas prices i'm not sure nickel and diming to maintain service is the right response anymore. now may be the time to lobby hard and bite the bullet and really jack up prices to greatly expand services so that the last comment by buisherpa can come true. like it or not we're all gonna need much more public transportation serivce.

I agree with that article.  Every dollar counts to the poorer people that ride transit, but losing their service counts even more.

My thought is, raise fares to not only cover the fuel cost increase but to provide a source of capital funding for projects that reduce RTA's expenses. These could include:

 

1. signal prioritization for buses on all routes, starting with those which offer the most frequent service. This would not only improve fuel efficiency, but reduce vehicle service hours, maintenance on brakes, reduce travel times for passengers etc.

 

2. Converting the busiest (top 10?) bus routes over to electric trolley bus operation. This need not require extensive capital investment, except for the new buses (which should have regenerative braking). See Dayton's newer suburban routes which use existing poles where possible to support overhead electric wires. This need not be extravagent, but could save RTA significant sums as diesel fuel costs rise and face shortages as early as this winter or more likely next.

 

3. Explore use of wind turbines and solar where possible to power RTA's electric trolley bus operations. There is likely state and federal grants for these capital improvements.

 

4. With more people riding transit (many of whom are new middle-class riders), boost advertising sales activities. Too many buses still lack on-board advertising or wrap ads. Same deal in RTA stations -- more ads! Concrete retaining walls along the rapid lines that are graffiti-stained today could be painted with advertising instead. The advertiser could also clean up the area around their ad and get some goodwill PR out of it (as could RTA).

 

That's about it for now. But I do think RTA can achieve some operational cost savings by investing in signal prioritization and electric trolley buses on the RTA's busiest routes.