Allies for Transportation 24/7

The Getting There Together Weekly: The Dave's Away Edition

2009-07-10T11:58:00.001-04:00

Folks,

The Bake Sale effort was a roaring succes. Sales were held in Detroit, Lansing, Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. We got media coverage in all the major markets and we raised over $150. At that rate, it will take slightly more than 82,000 bake sales to make up the cuts proposed by the Senate.There aren't enough cupcakes in Michigan to make that happen. Here in Grand Rapids, things went well between showers. TV-8 showed up and did an interview with Casey, one of our County Commissioners spent the hour with us and we passed out some information (below). Oh, and we raised $25.75. We're still trying to figure out what do do with the proceeds.

Transportation Asks & Talking Points

Restore Local Bus Operating Funding.

The Michigan Senate on 6/11/2009 slashed Fiscal Year 2010 Local Bus Operating funds from the Governor's recommended $166,624,000 to $162,340,600 - a $4.28 million cut. What this means in real life (for example): a 10% decrease in operating revenue for DDOT resulting in route cuts. Focus on House and Senate conference committee. "Please restore Local Bus Operating funding to 2009 levels in this year's transportation budget."

Restore AMTRAK Funding.

The Michigan Senate on 6/11/2009 dramatically slashed Fiscal Year 2010 AMTRAK funds to the extent that two of the state's three train routes will cease to operate before this time next year. Focus on House and Senate conference committee. "Please restore AMTRAK funding to 2009 ($7.1 million) levels in this year's transportation budget."

Total Public Transportation shortfall for 2009-2010 fiscal year will be about $45 million by conservative estimates. (The American Society of Civil Engineers has estimated a bigger shortfall.)

Support HB 4965 - the Transit Regionalization Grant Program bill.

This bill would amend PA 51 to establish a Transit Regionalization Grant Program. This program would require MDOT to fund and oversee an employee who would work with Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) to develop a "Transit Regionalization Work Program." The "Transit Regionalization Work Program" would essentially encourage transit authorities to collaborate in the planning and delivery of transit service within an MPO region. This is part of the TF2 bill package (Transportation Funding Task Force). "Please vote in support of HB 4965 when it comes up for a vote."

Support HB 4967 - Transit Investment Zones.

This bill would create a new Tax Increment Financing Authority (TIFA) statute that is specific to transit investments. Generally, TIFAs are zones created by a local entity (municipality) in which the property tax increase that occurs from a defined point in time is prospectively "captured." The "captured" revenue is then used for a specific purpose. This bill anticipates that Transit Oriented Development (TOD) will occur near transit locations, thus increasing property values. The "captured" money would be used for public facility upgrades which would encourage public transit in this instance - but not for transit operating expenses. This is part of the TF2 bill package. "Please vote in support of HB 4967 when it comes up for a vote."

Support HBs 4958 and 4959 - Penalties for Injuring Vulnerable Road Users (Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Inline Skaters, Etc.).

These bills would impose criminal penalties on those who commit a moving violation while operating a motor vehicle and as a result cause injury or death to a "vulnerable roadway user" on a road. These bills help recognize that pedestrians and bicyclists use our transportation system, too - not just passenger vehicles. "Please vote in support of HBs 4958 and 4959 when they come up for a vote."

TF2 Funding Bills and Transportation Funding Generally.

Our transportation system is currently under-funded. The TF2 funding bills are a good start in addressing how Michigan funds its transportation system. But, MDOT should not build or expand new roads; it should use its money to fix the roads that we have that are in a state of disrepair. "Please support a Fix-It-First policy that would direct MDOT to use its funds to repair Michigan's roads and bridges, and not on road expansions."

More Important but boring transit stuff :

Even under the Governor's recommendation, public transit agencies in both urban and rural communities will see their percentage of state support drop. This continues a steady trend of decreasing state support for transit that began in 1999.

Under state law, urban transit agencies are eligible for up to 50% of their operating costs to be borne by the state, while rural agencies may be reimbursed for up to 60% of their operations by the state. For 2010 the Governor's recommended funding levels would be roughly 29% urban and 35% rural. The Senate recommendation would reduce those levels of state support by approximately another one percent.

Dave will be back with a more concise message next week but that gives you an idea of where we are going on a state level.

Frank the Ghost writer for Dave
David Bulkowski, J.D.
Executive Director
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Empowering Independence
3600 Camelot SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 949-1100, ext. 228; dave.b@dakc.us

Michigan Taxpayers Support New York's Subway

2009-07-09T12:05:00.000-04:00

Michigan taxpayers already spend millions to build transit systems in other cities because of Michigan's failure to invest in transit. Michigan receives just 46% of the federal gas tax dollars we pay back for our bus and paratransit systems.

The Michigan Department of Transportation reported this past spring that without increased funding for transit, Michigan will lose out on $100 million in federal funds in FY 2010.

The Michigan legislature must restore the $11.5 million in cuts and identify $20 million in additional revenue for transit to receive these funds.

MPTA, MEC, TRU and others call on the Michigan legislature to restore the $11.5 million in cuts in the FY 2010 budget and identify additional revenue sources to ensure Michigan does not lose out on any possible federal investment.

Getting There Together Weekly: The They're At It Again Edition

2009-07-07T12:15:00.001-04:00

June 12, 2009
(Blog editor's apology: I missed posting this when it came in, but it is still extremely important.)

Folks,

They're at it again. Our elected officials are demonstrating what they "don't want to do" but are doing anyway.

Yesterday, June 11th, the Michigan Senate voted to cut the Local Bus Operating program by $4.28 million and the Amtrak rail passenger operating grant by $2 million.

Many bus systems around the state have been getting slammed on the expense side of their budgets due to rising fuel and healthcare costs among other things. On the revenue side of their budgets, the percentage coming from the State has been steadily shrinking. As an example, The Rapid has gone from nearly 50% of its budget coming from the bus operating program to under 30%.

And all the while, bus ridership continues to hit new records across the state. We continue to make progress on the local and regional scenes but funding remains the challenge and this budget cut will make the realization of quality systems that much harder. Check out what's happening in Metro Detroit.
For Amtrak, this is devastating. It will result in the loss of either the rail services along the Port Huron to Chicago route or the Grand Rapids to Chicago route--that's our Pere Marquette run. Worse case scenario maybe both would disappear!

So, when Governor Granholm is in Washington talking with the President about a high speed rail link between Detroit and Chicago, the Senate votes to gut the service we have. And, don't forget that the legislative task force exploring a high-speed rail link between Detroit and Lansing has scheduled its first meeting for June 15th at Michigan State University's Kellogg Center with a subsequent hearings set to come to Grand Rapids. I've been meaning to write about the need to get west Michigan on the high speed rail map and now it looks as if the senate wants us off the rail map entirely!

Fast, frequent and dependable trains, combined with local buses, are important tools for dealing with our economic, environmental and energy crises. With businesses looking for expanded transportation options for their employees and customers and with more Michiganders unable to afford personal vehicles, Michigan should expand passenger rail and transit, not cut.
The ball now heads over to the Michigan House of Representatives. From there, a conference committee will be formed to iron out the final details.

For today, contact your representative and urge them to restore the funding!
E-mail them or give them a call.

Talking points:

Restore Local Bus Operating Funding. The Michigan Senate on 6/11/2009 slashed Fiscal Year 2010 Local Bus Operating funds from the Governor's recommended $166,624,000 to $162,340,600 - a $4.28 million cut. What this means in real life: Significant route cuts. "Please restore Local Bus Operating funding to 2009 levels in this year's transportation budget."
Restore AMTRAK Funding. The Michigan Senate on 6/11/2009 dramatically slashed Fiscal Year 2010 AMTRAK funds to the extent that two of the state's three train routes will cease to operate before this time next year. "Please restore AMTRAK funding to 2009 ($7.1 million) levels in this year's transportation budget."

All for today.

Dave
David Bulkowski, J.D.
Executive Director
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Empowering Independence
3600 Camelot SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 949-1100, ext. 228; dave.b@dakc.us

Legislative TO DO for July

2009-07-06T11:50:00.000-04:00

Each month the DD Council is sending out ideas from the WHAT TO DO THROUGH THE YEAR LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR. They are suggestions of things to do each month to connect with your legislators. Here are some ideas for the month of July.

JULY

ADA celebration
Legislators in recess invite them to attend a RICC meeting
Contact legislator at their district office to discuss issues that are important to you
Volunteer to work on local issues and for candidates
Look for opportunities to talk with leaders (local fairs, festivals, parades, etc)

June Success Stories

2009-07-06T11:48:00.000-04:00

Genesee

A brochure is being created regarding personal hygiene for public transit drivers to discreetly hand out to riders.
Drivers are also taking sensitivity training.

Kalamazoo

A transportation millage has passed.

ADA Picnic - Grand Rapids

2009-07-06T11:42:00.000-04:00

Disability Advocates and Airway Oxygen invite you to join them in celebrating “ADA Picnic in the Park”.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009, 11:30am – 1:30pm.

There will be food and fun.

Please RSVP no later than July 17 by calling 949-1100, ext. 247 or andy.o@dakc.us

See you there!

Jocelyn Dettloff
Development Director
Disability Advocates of Kent County
tel 616-949-1100x237
fax 616-949-7865
jocelyn.d@dakc.us

May Success Stories

2009-06-22T15:58:00.001-04:00

Jackson

RICC members approached their public transit provider and asked them to hold Listening Sessions like CATA. The first meeting will be held in June.

Livingston County

Held a town forum and their legislators attended.

Huron County

While attending a legislative function in Lansing, their legislator invited them to his office and had time to talk with RICC members.

Shiawassee County

A team from the Shiawassee RICC was accepted to attend Project Action in Washington, DC.

Wayne County

The Wayne RICCC is working on creative ways of increasing transportation opportunities for People with disabilities.

All Person Centered Plans will now include transportation and how it will happen must be included in the plan

Cooperating with other organizations and agencies on ways to coordinate and plan for ways to meet the transportation needs of people with disabilities.

Genesee County

A legislator from the area introduced S.B. 460, which amends PA 51. This would provide a universal ADA card, which will be accepted by all transit providers.

We celebrated “Smart Commute” week in Genesee County.

Update on transportation conference (funded by the DD Council)

2009-06-15T15:51:00.002-04:00

At the DD Council Transportation Work Group meetings, we have been talking about a statewide Transit Partnership Conference.

It was originally schedule for September, 2009 in Mt. Pleasant, in conjunction with another event. Because of state budget cuts, the other event was canceled, so we are reworking our plans.

We will replace that conference with 2 events.

First, we will be supporting people to attend the MASSTRAN Frontline Employees conference. Frontline employees are dispatchers, drivers, and others who work directly with riders. Their conference will be covering topics such as customer service, disability awareness, and the ADA.

The Frontline conference is in Bay City the weekend of Sept. 12. We will be covering the conference registration fees for about 20-25 advocates with disabilities to attend.

If you are interested in one of those slots, please contact me, Glenn Ashley, at 517 --203 --1200 or Ashley @ ucpmichigan.org.

We will also collaborate with MDOT and Michigan Public Transit Association (MPTA) on their Program Managers conference in April, with some additional sessions for people with disabilities and other advocates to develop action plans on important issues. Those dates will be April 1 and 2. The conference will be in Mt. Pleasant.

We will post more details as they become available.

Please pass this information on to other transit advocates with disabilities.

Thanks.

Ramp It!

2009-05-15T11:09:00.001-04:00

Seeking support from Legislators to ensure equal access.

The 13 steps leading up to the speakers platform at the front of Michigan’s State Capitol Building are a barrier to those unable to climb them and who are therefore denied opportunities to speak at public events, rallies, and lobby days.

People unable to climb the 13 steps are denied access to this real and symbolic place of public power. The public is denied the benefit of hearing from those people who are chair users, people with disabilities, old people, and others.
Further, due to the cost of privately renting a ramp to accommodate people unable to climb these 13 steps, public event producers are reluctant to consider certain speakers.

Ramp it! Asks the state to provide such a ramp and make it available free of charge to organizations, event planners, rally producers.

Ramp it! Has a cost estimate between $10,000 - $14,000 for the state to purchase such a ramp. The Capital Committee has suggested there is storage space available close by to house the ramp between requests, they have also suggested an un-lawful of chagrining those who request it. This is against the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Help us raise awareness with your State Representatives, State Senators, the Governor and others in state positions of power. Tell them accessibility is a constitutional right. By having the freedom of speech, one is entitled to access to the facility from which one speaks, accessible to all.

For more information contact:

Alicia Paterni
apaterni @ camw.net
517 492 5551

Penny Gardner
Marydrpenny @ yahoo.com
517 484 4512

A project currently being coordinated by Alicia Paterni and Penny Gardner.
Initiated by Nancy English at the Michigan Pride Rally 2007.
With the support of Michigan Disability Rights Coalition
Lansing Association For Human Rights, Michigan Commission on Services for the Aging, Disability Network of Mid-Michigan.

April Success Stories

2009-05-12T13:45:00.002-04:00

Genesee

The Genesee RICC has another member that has been appointed to the LAC
Complete Streets project is moving along
The legislator from the Genesee area has introduced a bill that will make a universal ADA card. If passed this would mean that once you got an ADA card it would be recognized by all transit agencies.

St. Clair

Ridership for the month of March on the Blue Water Public Transit beat the record by 13%.
Ridership is up 47% for the year

Wayne

The Wayne RICC and the Arc partnered with United Way & TRUE to work toward increasing riders of choice. These are individuals who don’t have to use public transportation but choose to. Each rider of choice will be given a $10 bus card and then must take a survey.

Lansing

Tandy Bidinger, Paul Palmer and Diane Kempen, all members of the TWG, have been asked by MDOT to participate in an ADA stakeholders meeting on April 17, 2009.

Muskegon

The Chamber of Commerce held a breakfast with a panel presenting different sides to public transit funding
Muskegon Moves Coalition approved the Chamber of Commerce becoming a member of the coalition.

Get Your Citizen's Guide Now

2009-04-17T01:35:00.000-04:00

The new Citizen's Guide to State Government is available.

This booklet has lots of helpful information, including:

Contact information for all the state legislators.
Committee assignments.
Explanations of how state government works.

Diane Kempen carries one with her all the time.

Contact your legislator to request one. If you are coming to the April 21 Transit Action Day, ask your legislator to bring enough for your group.

Reminder: Register for April 21 Legislative Day

2009-04-15T09:31:00.003-04:00

Remember to RSVP for a lunch at the:
“Let’s Get Moving” Public Transit Coalition
Legislative Day at the Capitol
April 21, 2009

The RSVP number is 517-372-0860
Also be sure to bring a photo ID and to call your legislators to personally invite them to attend.

Please join members of the Let’s Get Moving Coalition for a day of grass roots advocacy on behalf of public transportation!

When: Tuesday April 21, 2009
Where: State Capitol
Who: Transit riders, operators, managers and advocates from around the state
Why: To promote and protect public transit services

Advocacy Day Schedule

9:00 House Committee Hearing (optional) TBA

10:30 Grass Roots Training Session Mackinac Room

11:30 Legislative Luncheon Mackinac Room

1:00 Debriefing and Feedback Mackinac Room

1:30 House Session (optional) State Capitol

2:00 Transit Press Conference Capitol Rotunda

RSVP Policy

Please contact Capitol Services, Inc. and let them know if you plan to attend. They can be reached at 517-372-0860, or through email to csi@capitolservices.org.

Help Get Silver Line Millage Passed

2009-04-11T09:34:00.001-04:00

Calling All Volunteers!

Join us for 3 morning volunteer canvasses to help inform voters about the Silver Line!

April 18, 25 and May 2

Details for April 18
Location:
Depart from 556 Glenwood SE
(in Eastown) at the corner of Glenwood & Sherman
Time: 9:30 a.m. - noon

Details for April 25 & May 2
Location:
Depart from Kent Ionia Labor Council Hall, 918 Benjamin NE
off of Fuller Ave
Time: 9:30 a.m. - noon

For questions or to sign up
email: ruthkelly@yahoo.com
or call: 616 447 1682.

For more info about the millage, click here or on the link at the top of the post.

March Success Stories

2009-04-09T09:36:00.002-04:00

Ottawa
The transit agency has added 8 new routes.

Wayne
RICC member Tommy Meadows has been appointed the 14th Congressional District Democratic Party Vice President (forming a disability caucus group)

Holding a 16th Annual Town Hall meeting with Senator Hansen Clark
o Asking for a statewide ADA card
o Regional transit in Detroit area

Ramp it! Project
The 13 steps leading up to the speakers platform at the front of Michigan’s State Capitol Building are a barrier to those unable to climb them and who are therefore denied opportunities to speak at public events, rallies, and lobby days.

The Ramp it! Project made a presentation at the recent Disability Caucus meeting and asked the state to provide such a ramp and make it available to organizations, event planner, and rally producers. Help raise awareness with your legislators. Tell them accessibility is a constitutional right. By having the freedom of speech, one is entitled to access to the facility from which one speaks, accessible to all.

For more information contact:
Alicia Paterni
apaterni @ camw.nwt

Ready to Help Move Kent County Forward!

2009-04-09T09:31:00.003-04:00

From Friends of Transit in Kent County

The Rapid Board is poised to ask the citizens of its six member cities for the needed support to make the Silver Line rapid transit a reality for the first time in Michigan. And Friends of Transit is ready to do its part in the campaign to educate area voters and get out the “yes” vote on May 5, the tentative millage election date. View the Silver Line rapid transit ballot question.

After years of study, the federal and state governments are ready to provide the dollars needed to build the Silver Line rapid transit system; The Rapid now must secure the local dollars needed to operate the new service.

“This is about jobs and development,” stated Rick Chapla of the Right Place, Inc. “Not only will there be jobs in the building of the new Rapid Transit line, but this type of service will attract new development and in fill redevelopment along the entire line.”

“This really is a new kind of service,” said David Doyle, Friends of Transit Co-chair and long-time transit supporter. “As the experience of other cities across the country has shown, this kind of investment in rapid transit has spurred development along the new lines. I am very excited about how this will help the Division corridor rebound.”

What makes this proposal unique is that, if passed by the voters, The Rapid will stand to gain $40 million in federal capital dollars to support the building of the Silver Line rapid transit line. The proposed service will run from 60th Street on South Division north until Wealthy Street and then run throughout the downtown area to support such employment and educational centers as Spectrum Health’s Butterworth campus, St, Mary’s Medical Center, DeVos Place, Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids Community College and the GVSU Cook-DeVos Health Sciences Building.

Stay informed - Stay involved! Join Friends of Transit.

Taking a Trip on Indian Trails?

2009-04-03T11:31:00.005-04:00

Here’s Some Tips….

1. If you need accommodations (i.e. wheelchair lift), reserve your ticket and request those accommodations at least 48 hours before the time you want to take your trip. It might be a good idea to call the day before you trip just to make sure that they have record of your request and intend to honor it.

2. Any time a wheelchair lift is requested, drivers have an extra 30 minutes added to their run time to make sure the lift is working and ready and that the bus is at the pick up location on time.

3. Drivers have been trained on how to operate the wheelchair lifts, but there are many steps. If they are having trouble they should use the “cheat sheets” located by the drivers console or on the door to the lift.

4. If drivers are still having trouble after using the “cheat sheets”, they have cell phones and should use these to call dispatch right away.

5. Dispatchers should be able to walk drivers through the process – BUT if there are still problems, a replacement bus should be sent right away.

6. If you have any problems riding the bus it is extremely important that you report them to Indian trails. They cannot fix what they don’t know about!! To file a report, call:
1-800-292-3831

7. Things to note in your report are:

a. Date/time of you scheduled departure
b. Bus number
c. Driver’s name
d. Was the bus on time?
e. Did the lift work properly? Did the driver know how to operate the lift?
f. If not, did the driver use the right procedures (ex. Cheat sheets, calling dispatch) to try to resolve the problem?
g. Was the problem fixed in a timely manner?
h. Were you treated with courtesy and respect?

8. The Administrative Office of Indian Trails is also concerned that you have the best experience possible. If there are problems, also call:
Ken Henry, V.P. of Maintenance and Operations at (989)723-9625 or
Chad Cushman, V.P. of Business and Administration at (989)723-9600

Iosco wins the "RICC That Makes a Difference" Award

2009-03-24T17:00:00.002-04:00

At their Legislative Recption on February 10, the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council presented the "RICC That Makes A Difference" award to the Iosco RICC.

This award recognizes a Regional Interagency Consumer Council (RICC) that has significantly improved the visibility, influence and integration of persons with developmental disabilities. The Iosco RICC demonstrates substantial consumer direction in activities and projects that benefit persons with developmental disabilities.

They incorporate team work and volunteerism in their group structure. The RICC is a champion in advocating for the rights and responsibilities of people with developmental disabilities.

The Iosco RICC has been active for the past 8-10 years, gradually evolving from a social organization to a systems change and service oriented RICC.

This past year the RICC was involved in Relay for Life, the Fourth of July Parade in Oscoda, the Fall Scarecrow contest (with the theme of voter awareness), a voting forum, multiple letter writing campaigns to their legislators to advocate for issues of concern as they arose, involvement in the Local Advisory Committee for the local transit, and contribution at the town ship level to develop universally accessible parks.

In recognition for their outstanding visibility in the community, for their advocacy and service, and for building partnerships with local bodies, the Council is proud to award its "RICC That Makes a Difference Award" to the Iosco RICC.

George Hanley Recieves Unsung Advocate Award

2009-03-19T16:43:00.006-04:00

At their Legislative Reception on February 10, the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council presented the Unsung Advocate Award, to Mr. George Hanley.

The award recognizes a person or group that demonstrates the spirit of the council’s mission and goals. It highlights behind the scenes contributions of those that work tirelessly to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Mr. Hanley has served as a student representative on Lansing Community College’s special populations committee for 5 years, advocating to address physical barriers, policy issues, and various problems affecting students with disabilities. Some of the issues he has addressed are:

Mislabeling of inaccessible restrooms labeled accessible or vice-versa on campus. He rallied for accurate signage as well as accessibility buttons on the indoor and outdoors of the restrooms.
Inaccessibility of temporary bus stops during downtown construction; he educated CATA and LCC on how some of the temporary locations impacted wheelchair users’ ability to safely and adequately get to the temporary stops.
Accessibility of keyboards in the computer labs and the library; he educated the college on how routine functions necessary to start the computers (such as ctrl-alt-delete) were a barrier to people with diminished fine motor skills and other conditions; an alternate method of starting the computers was developed which was accessible.
When the west campus was unveiled, he made it known that there was no way for people who did not drive to get to west campus, and a bus route was added.
He has discussed with mathematics professors on particular accommodations for people with disabilities especially with regard for the TI-85 calculator needed for higher level math classes and its use by persons with blindness.

Mr. Hanley takes his advocacy efforts off campus too. He has documented the significant transportation barriers as a result of the City of Lansing spilling into 3 counties. He is working with the local transit agencies on this issue; as well as Delta Township, Eaton County, and Ingham County Board of Commissioners.

He was very involved in the fall of 2008 on the Capital Area Transit Authority (CATA) millage issue and was instrumental in helping to plan for the public rally for the millage on the steps of the Michigan Capitol. He was active in Lansing and East Lansing, distributing yard signs and canvassing stores about the impact this could have on their businesses. He worked with UAW local 652 and worked in concert with other organizations on the effort.

He enjoys seeing a growing movement of acceptance and appreciation in his generation of all people. He believes that anyone can be anything they want to be and to see that transpire is the best reward he could hope for. It is my pleasure to present the Outstanding Advocate award to George Hanley.

February Success Stories

2009-03-14T16:34:00.001-04:00

Success stories from the DD Council Transportation Work Group.

Genesee County

Charlene Lizotte started her own consulting business and won a contract for sensitivity training at their transit agency.
Christine Hodgson won an MPAS essay award.

Shiawassee County

The transportation coalition got two new townships to provide public transportation in their area.
Over the past year, public transit has expanded from 5 participating areas (ones providing funding to SATA) to 10 participating areas. This has tripled the geographic area

Wayne County

The light rail system has been approved
The new Mayor has brought forth a directive that MDOT & SMART talk with one another.

Getting There Together Weekly--Friends of Transit

2009-03-11T13:15:00.000-04:00

Great News!
The Friends of Transit in Kent County has its own blog!
You can find it at: http://friendsoftransit.wordpress.com/
The Getting There Together Weekly will be posted there every week.

Currently the Friends of Transit in Kent County are promoting the millage for the new Silver Line, which will be a big positive step for public transit in Michigan.

Our blog, Allies for Transportation 24/7, will also post selected Getting There Together Weekly editions with news about transit initiatives throughout Michigan.

Glenn Ashley,
All Aboard! Transportation Advocacy Training project
United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan.
ashley @ UCPMichigan.org
Allies for Transportation 24/7 blog.

Rep. Marie Donigan Receives DD Council's Legislative Champion Award.

2009-03-05T14:21:00.000-05:00

At the Legislative Reception on February 10, 2009, The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council presented the Legislative Champion Award to Representative Marie Donigan.

Rep. Donigan has used her position as chair of the House Subcommittee on Public Transit to champion public transportation causes in the legislature. In addition she has collaborated with and empowered people with disabilities on a number of occasions.

Her subcommittee held a series of public hearings on how public transit is a benefit to Michigan and its citizens. She scheduled an additional hearing for the DD Council’s Transportation Work Group to testify at the request of advocates for people with developmental disabilities. She and her committee produced an outstanding report titled "Public Transportation in Michigan: An Economic Development Tool Whose Time Has Come." (download from:
http://transportationallies.googlepages.com/vision.htm)
The report was given to all legislators to help them understand transit issues.

Ms. Donigan was a key supporter of transportation funding bills to implement the initial recommendations of the Transportation Funding Task Force (TF2). The work that she did the transit subcommittee contributed significantly to gaining legislative support for the package. While it did not pass in the lame duck session, the foundation is in place for action in 2009.

She created a historic partnership between the east and west sides of the state on transit issues. She worked with disability advocates to have two town hall meetings, one in Royal Oak with presenters from Grand Rapids, and one in Grand Rapids with presenters from southeast Michigan. The speakers included people with various disabilities.

Ms. Donigan has been an important partner in developing proposed strategies for expanding public transportation in southeast Michigan, including the Woodward Corridor light rail and the Detroit to Ann Arbor commuter rail.

Public transportation is one of the DD Council's priorities. It is one of the most important issues for people with disabilities. Increasing funding, availability and accessibility of public transportation are essential for community living, employment, inclusion and quality of life for people with developmental disabilities. Ms. Donigan’s contributions on this critical issue are unparalleled in the legislature during her tenure.

The nomination was submitted by Glenn Ashley from United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan.

Changes Must Begin Today

2009-03-03T11:24:00.003-05:00

The first critical steps to begin achieving the Michigan Transit Vision include the following:

Increase and stabilize bus funding, ending agency vs. agency conflict,
Authorize new local funding options,
Support and fund new rapid transit investments including the Grand Rapids bus-rapid-transit project, the Wally and Detroit-Airport-Ann Arbor commuter train projects, and a Woodward light rail line.

By making significant investments in transit across Michigan today, our state can boost our economy, fulfill the needs of all Michiganders, and start creating a successful, attractive state for the 21st century.

This is the eighth in a series of posts of sections of the Michigan Transit Vision. You can download the full document at:
http://transportationallies.googlepages.com/vision.htm

Getting There Together Weekly--The Warning of Redundancy Edition--February 27, 2009

2009-02-27T16:55:00.002-05:00

Folks,

We are about 60 days from the Silver Line millage election which is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5. And I'm starting to get a little nervous. So, I must warn you now that I may be repeating myself often over the next nine weeks.

Yikes! Only nine weeks to election day! So much to do and so little time. On paper, the task is easy - get a majority of voters to say, "Yes" to the Silver Line Millage. But that's on paper and I'm getting nervous.

Unfortunately, we're all a bit nervous these days. Times are tough. There is no doubt about that. The daily doses of economic statistics often make me wonder when the end will be in sight. Some economists say the 3rd quarter of this year; others point with more hope to 2010. But these are national economists. The Michigan folks are looking for a little relief after the national rebound. So, no matter which prognosticator you prefer, the economy will not be our friend on May 5.

How can any one seek a tax increase in this climate?

Of course, you know the answer to that question--we are seeking a tax increase this year because we have an awesome opportunity to capture $40 million in federal and state dollars in order to build the first rapid transit line in Michigan.

But while the economy may not be our friend this time around, that does not mean the economic arguments have failed us as well. Rather, most sets of facts and figures I look at are clearly in our corner.

Some might even label this election, "New Opportunities for Community Growth."

Jobs. The Silver Line will create 405 new and permanent jobs (direct and indirect) with an average annual wage of $37,000.

Economic Impact. The economic return on investment is projected to be 400%; similar systems have seen returns as high as 1000%.

Connectivity. Located along South Division and wrapping around St. Mary's, GRCC and the Medical Mile back through downtown by the convention center and arena, the Silver Line will link residents with medical facilities, college campuses and neighborhood commerce centers.

Development. Areas along the route have already seen private and public interest toward growth in housing, commercial development and parks.

Convenience. The estimated time travel from 60th Street to the Medical Mile is 27 minutes-factor in the circuitous travel around a parking ramp, then the walk to the front door and the Silver Line will clearly be competitive with driving yourself.

Fund Availability. The Silver Line is the first project of its kind in Michigan. As noted above, there is money in Washington and Lansing with our names on it. A "Yes" vote on May 5th secures this funding and opens the door to future transit opportunities.

So, there's good news to be spread about the Silver Line in spite of these tough times! (More details at: http://www.ridetherapid.org/about/great-transit.) And when the going gets tough, the tough have a meeting. That is, the clear thinking tough people get together and chart a course (http://rapidyes.org/informational-meeting.htm). That's what we're planning on doing on Tuesday, March 10 at noon. Come join the other Friends of Transit at LaGrave Church (107 LaGrave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503) to (1) learn more about the Silver Line, (2) learn that it's legal for all types of organizations and churches to be involved in this type of campaign and (3) learn what Friends of Transit has in store by way of activities and how you can help to get a majority YES vote on May 5. We promise we'll have you out in an hour or less!

In addition to attending this informational meeting, mark your calendar for Tuesday, March 24 at 5:00pm at Tommy Brann's Restaurant. Come on out along the Silver Line route in Wyoming for the kick off celebration for the Silver Line millage. (I'll be repeating more details as the date draws nearer.)

Finally, as far as the redundant campaign items go, don't forget to download an endorsement form (http://www.rapidyes.org/FOT-2009-support-form.pdf) and then forward this message to every one in your address book.

As for a couple new items, first, did you notice that this piece now gets uploaded to a blog? Check out: http://friendsoftransit.wordpress.com/. You too now have a forum for comments, critiques and random thoughts that pop into your consciousness about transit after reading through these weekly e-newsletters or any other time.

Second, if the thought of blogging has you looking for a more concrete way to let your opinion be known, head to the survey being conducted by the West Michigan Transit Linkages Study. The news of this study is redundant, but the survey is new. Head to www.westmichigantransitsurvey.info and let your opinions on West Michigan connectivity be known! And it might even be profitable--The Macatawa Area Coordinating Council has graciously offered several $25 gift certificates as an incentive for respondents to make it all the way to the end of this brief survey.

All for today.

Dave

P.S. Thanks to all from Friends of Transit for their help in the drafting of the "New Opportunities for Community Growth" section above.

David Bulkowski, J.D.
Executive Director
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Empowering Independence
3600 Camelot SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 949-1100, ext. 228; dave.b@dakc.us

Michigan Must Invest in Transit to Succeed

2009-02-27T11:21:00.002-05:00

Michigan Must Make a Major Investment in Transit to Succeed in the 21st Century

Significant increases in state transit funding are needed, including increasing fuel and registration tax rates and identifying more stable funding sources.

The state must allow local residents to decide whether to invest in their transit system. Michigan communities need additional local and regional funding options, such as:

Local sales tax,
Local gas tax,
Local vehicle registration or license fees,
Local property transfer tax,
Transit-oriented tax-increment financing districts, and
Enabled private investment for transportation improvements.

Revisions to Michigan’s transportation funding system should also include eliminating the restriction of transportation revenues by mode from the constitution and Public Act 51. Due to changes in auto fuel efficiency and driving patterns, funding mechanisms beyond the fuel tax will also be necessary. New and innovative funding mechanisms will be needed in the future.

This is the seventh in a series of posts of sections of the Michigan Transit Vision. You can download the full document at:
http://transportationallies.googlepages.com/vision.htm

Michigan Needs a Comprehensive Transportation System

2009-02-24T11:18:00.004-05:00

Michigan’s transportation system must include the following:

High speed trains between Detroit, Chicago and other major Midwest cities;
Intercity passenger trains and buses linking all metropolitan areas and major tourist areas throughout Michigan;
Regional commuter trains connecting cities within regions;
Light rail, bus-rapid-transit and other rapid transit service along major corridors in urban areas;
Quality local bus service on good roads to reliably get workers to jobs and citizens to daily activities;
Bike lanes, greenways, walking paths and other infrastructure that provide complete streets and safe non-motorized travel options;
Paratransit, dial-a-ride, and other lifeline transit services in every community to ensure every Michigander access to critical services and employment.

To be successful, Michigan’s transit system must provide the following:

Sufficient and secure funding for all transit systems, large and small;
Well integrated modes providing quick and easy connections; and
Transit service and information that is accessible to everyone.

This is the sixth in a series of posts of sections of the Michigan Transit Vision. You can download the full document at:
http://transportationallies.googlepages.com/vision.htm