Michigan in Deep Trouble Without Mass Transit

by: dzhuang

Thu Aug 14, 2008 at 22:41:04 PM EDT

Michiganians are stuck on automobiles in more than one way. Not only is our economy dependent upon the Big 3 automakers, we rely solely on automobiles to get around our state–and now it is taking its toll.

A task force appointed by Governor Granholm recently released a report declaring that Michigan must double spending on roads and bridges otherwise “many will keep deteriorating and become unsafe.” The state spends about $3.2 billion a year on road and bridge maintenance, and now the task force recommends it to spend $6.1 billion a year for “good” conditions or $12.6 billion a year for “better” conditions. It is ridiculous how much taxpayer money goes towards fixing roads. The main propagator for this crisis? The lack of an adequate mass transit system anywhere in the state.

It might just be that the idea of single commuter transit is become embedded in every Michiganian’s mindset. It was once a sign of wealth and power as well as a tribute to the technology that gave them jobs and drove the state’s economy; however, now it is just an outdated method of travel that is more painful nostalgia than anything else. Now is a good time–no, needed time–to let go and say goodbye to the back and forth drive between your home and work, school or friends and say goodbye to the killer gas prices that average about $3.88 a gallon (lower than before but still a burden).

Michiganians have just started smartening up, starting with our governor. Governor Granholm recently decided to take the bus to work instead of drive, shifting the spotlight onto mass transit and its economical benefits. It’s simple really–you ride the bus, you save quite a bit of money from decreased fuel consumption and decreased spending on fuel. Transit ridership out on the West side of the state has risen, demonstrating the growing demand for public transit–and in effect, the need for increased public transit funding to improve Michigan’s public transit systems.

So far, Michigan has barely anything to offer. The only rail system we have is in Detroit, the People Mover, a troublesome and miniature 2.9 mile-long transit system with a pathetic 13 stops. Metro-Detroit has a poor and inefficient bus system and no rail system. Western Michigan has a bus system (though I have no idea about the quality). Ann Arbor and Lansing do as well. I am less clear on other parts of the state.

To read more, visit: http://michypa.com/2008/08/04/michigan-in-trouble-without-mass-transit/