The Way to Expand Transit

Among your many responses to last Sunday's column on our region's transportation priorities was this letter.

Dear Dr. Gridlock:

If you could do one thing to improve traffic flow in the region, I would strongly suggest expanding public transport. Expansion of the rail and bus systems takes vehicles off the road, providing for a smoother ride for the remaining drivers.

Drivers should pay to improve public transport, because drivers will benefit the most when people choose to avoid the roads. Increasing transit fares drives riders away and forces more congestion on the road.

Improvements in public transport could be achieved by establishing a dedicated funding stream coming from across the region to support local public transport systems. Such a funding stream could come from a 20-cent-per-gallon gas tax on all gas sold in the District and its bordering counties.

Also, all new vehicles could have an additional 1 percent tax. Finally, a $10 increase on all vehicle registrations in this area could be implemented. The dedicated funding stream would not only help public transport systems improve and expand their operations but also would provide funds to improve pedestrian safety and educate the public on the importance of transit. Public transportation improves the environment and saves lives.

Shannon Parkin

Silver Spring

She has two small children and does not drive, so public transportation and pedestrian safety are very important in her daily life. "I walk a lot, pushing a double stroller around downtown Silver Spring," she said. "When I can't walk, I use Ride On buses and Metro."