How can we address the underfunding of transit? [1]

At the Municipal Level

Achieving optimal usage of a public transit system requires a civic commitment to a long-range transportation policy in which the role of public transit is clearly recognized and its development assured. Recognized transportation experts agree that good planning practices are illustrated by cities that conscientiously pursue the development of multiple public transit modes to achieve quality and diversity in their transit services. Commitment, quality and diversity attract riders. Civic leaders in Edmonton need to pursue a plan that corrects the imbalances between funding for infrastructure to accommodate automobiles and funding for transit. Better civic commitment to transit can go a long way to realize improvements.

The Transportation Master Plan recognizes the necessity of alternatives to the private automobile.    

The Canadian Urban Transit Association advocates that public transit and municipal roads should at least be allocated equal funds.    

Civic leaders need to demonstrate leadership to level the playing field. Only they can initiate the planning process to improve the quality and productivity of public transit and expand the mobility choices to Edmontonians. Innovative ideas like cost-sharing shemes with developers, for example, can add to our resources for developing more transit service.