Speak up! Listening Session next Thursday, March 22, 2012
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Wisconsin Commission on Transportation Finance and Policy
1001 West St. Paul Ave., Milwaukee, Just west of the Amtrak Station
Nearby bus routes 10, 12, 23, 30, 31, 57, 80, Metro Express Blue Line The State Legislature established this Commission as part of the 2011-13 budget to examine issues related to the future of transportation finance in Wisconsin. The Commission’s report to the Legislature, due no later than March 1, 2013, will encompass new approaches for the next decade. You are encouraged to speak at the public listening session.
You will have 2-3 minutes to speak. Please consider bringing your comments in writing for the Commission (11 members). If you cannot get to the session, written comments and testimony are also being accepted via email at dottfpco...@dot.wi.gov.
Looking ahead for SE Wisconsin Transit Systems: Dedicated funding a crucial concern.
Public transit service in SE Wisconsin has been significantly reduced over the last decade, and without a change, would be expected to continue its downward path. The last State budget did significant damage to the “base” of funding for transit systems. Click here to view a SE WI Transit Update. Regional connectivity and a sustainable, reliable, dedicated funding model for transit in Wisconsin is vital to our economic future. This listening session is a valuable opportunity to educate the Commission and decision makers statewide about the need for robust transit options as a part of the comprehensive transportation system and a vibrant economy in the Metro Milwaukee area. Transit is essential to job access, businesses, education, personal independence, and our economic security. Use of public transit grew in 2011, both nationally and locally. [SEE LINKS BELOW]
In particular,studies found that nearly 60 percent of transit rides are for commuting for work AND that big increases in ridership were in parts of the country that gained employment. This is the message the Commission needs to hear. As we heard from Mr. Rasmussen on March 6: Transit benefits the entire community, including those who don’t ride it. Looking ahead, what are your priorities for the Wisconsin Transportation Fund? Will our current transportation system meet our changing needs? For more information about the commission visit www.dot.wisconsin.gov/about/tfp or click here for a summary. Moving Forward Together
Coalition for Advancing Transit IN THE NEWS |
