Have previous privatization contracts helped or hindered RTD riders and taxpayers? Should RTD expand those programs?
Existing private contracts such as we have for about half of the existing bus routes, have been generally neutral to riders and have stretched tax dollars to provide some additional services at no additional taxpayer expense. The quality of service provided by private contractors needs to be carefully monitored with any problems corrected immediately. RTD should expand privatization when practical and it benefits the public.
What makes you most qualified for a seat on the RTD board?
I have more experience in transportation and public infrastructure than either of my opponents and a record of involvement in many facets of transportation from rail to bike. As an Aurora Planning Commissioner and Water Advisory Committee Chair, I am involved in the planning of large public infrastructure projects. I have experience in reviewing large project budgets. I have been involved in the FasTracks train project from the beginning in 2003 and participated directly on East Corridor (Union Station to DIA) working groups. I am a graduate of the Transit Academy. I am called to advise on numerous area transportation projects like the Arapahoe and Parker Road Studies. I am committed to alternate modes of transportation and started Bicycle Aurora. In contrast to my opponents, I work well with other leaders to find solutions to difficult problems.
Do plans for RTD’s FasTracks light-rail stations in Aurora provide adequate parking? If not, how should that be resolved?
No, the recent independent Aurora parking study will show that RTD has underestimated the need for parking along the I-225 corridor. RTD and the City of Aurora should look for partners to build adequate parking. Private partners can share the costs and benefits of building infrastructure, businesses and residences close to the light rail stations to stretch our tax dollars.
At this point, what direction should RTD take to ensure the fastest, best way to implement the FasTracks program?
FasTracks has a serious financial shortfall. Federal government grants and financial partnerships should be used to build the highest priority rail lines like the Denver Union Station to DIA first. Area mayors and RTD Directors, along with public input, need to work together to find ways to build the remaining lines as quickly as possible.
Should the RTD board lower the thresholds for cutting unpopular RTD lines?
Cutting “unpopular” bus routes can leave some in our community with no transportation options. Bus lines need to be carefully evaluated so that the largest number of people can be efficiently served while not stranding those with few transportation options.
Would you support cutting less popular lines to increase frequency on more popular lines?
Cutting less popular lines does not guarantee that other lines will see more use. Removing a bus line may just force some to take their car. Often people choose to live at a particular location because of the existing bus service. Changing bus lines needs to be done carefully to impact the fewest people.
How often do you ride RTD buses or trains?
I use the bus and light rail mainly for commuting downtown to meetings and recreation events. Unfortunately, the bus does not serve me well for commuting to work. My primary method for commuting the 8 miles to work is by bicycle and motor scooter.
What things should RTD do to boost ridership?
Many Aurora residents have never ridden a bus or light rail in their lives. I would work on community outreach programs that would help residents get over their apprehension of the bus and light rail system. I will work to help prospective riders learn to navigate through the RTD transit system which can appear to be daunting.
As a teenager growing up very near New York City, a friend taught me the ropes for navigating my way through the New York City mass transit system. We need to pass that kind of experience along to new riders.
Has the Call-n-Ride program been a boon or a boondoggle?
Call-n-Ride is neither a boon nor a boondoggle. Call-n-Ride is a van service that fills a need where regular buses are not available. Customers that I have talked to say that persistence and patience are necessary when using Call-n-Ride. People shouldn’t expect a taxi level of service but Call-n-Ride will get you to where you need to go, most of the time. The program is a beneficial service for a small segment of the population and is expensive to provide.
What priorities would you have as an RTD board director?
To work for completion of the I-225 Light Rail corridor serving Aurora as expeditiously as possible.
To improve the performance of the bus system to allow riders to get to work on time. To improve the bus routing in Aurora to allow residents that live and work in Aurora to use the bus for daily commuting. To improve the information systems to make it easier for riders to find the most efficient route to their destination. To increase ridership through education and outreach programs to help new riders navigate through what can seem to be a daunting transit system. To advocate for Transit Oriented Development (TOD) at rail stations to provide housing options for individuals who choose to use an automobile less frequently. |
