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Pushing mass transit as gas prices rise

by Maria Downey
Thursday, March 6, 2008

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Several groups of Alaska consumer and conservation advocates released a report Thursday promoting public transit improvements as gas prices rise and citizens grow increasingly concerned about carbon emissions.

Groups say the bottom line is that the mass transit system deserves more state funding.

Transportation accounts for about 35 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in Alaska, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

Alaska Public Research Interest Group Executive Director Steve Cleary said Alaska is one of just two states that doesn't fund public transit systems.

"What this report highlights is benefits of public transit to reduce congestion, fuel and money savings -- and a reduction in carbon emissions," Cleary said.

That message is shared by Lois Epstein with the Alaska Transportation Priorities Project, Margaret Manousoff with Alaska Conservation Solutions and Alaska Mobility Coalition.

"Of course the state operational budget has just passed but the Senate budget is still a possibility," Epstein said. "So we definitely like to see some support for the transit systems around the state. Particularly as fuel prices are going up; costs for transit are going up but the ridership is going up as well."

Public transit users complain that bus service needs to be more frequent. Conversely, Manousoff said service remains infrequent due to a lack of users.

"So in my mind it's one of those build it and they will come sort of situations," Manousoff said.

Cleary said there would be benefits for everyone.

"Even people who don't choose to ride the PeopleMover or use Van Share here in Anchorage can reap benefits from other people doing so by relieving the congestion," Cleary said. "So what we'd like to see -- more sustainable  transportation where public transit was prioritized and given a better role in relieving congestion and reducing global warming emissions and saving everybody money."

Manousoff calls it a simple solution that saves people money and conserves energy while helping to protect traditional ways of life around the state.

The solution, however, will cost money. The groups propose an additional $2.5 million from the general operating budget.

Supporters say that increased funding will allow for millions more in federally-matched funds.

The state Senate has not yet debated the issue.

Gov. Sarah Palin has inserted $800,000 for public transit in the capital budget.

The report released Thursday is called "A Better Way to Go: Meeting America's 21st Century Transportation Challenges with Modern Public Transit."

Contact Maria Downey at mdowney@ktuu.com