Critical Dane County RTA Vote on Thursday, Nov. 5th!
WE NEED YOUR HELP to make it happen!
Friends,
We are building strong momentum for regional transit and the formation of a Regional Transit Authority in Dane County, but Thursday evening (Nov 5) will be a critical step to moving forward – the full county board will vote on the formation of the RTA (Resolution 152) at 7pm. The creation of an RTA is the first critical step to developing a seamless, region-wide transit system in Dane County that grows our region and local economy, meets our needs, and reduces our dependence on oil.
It won’t be easy. The opposition to a seamless, region-wide transit system in Dane County is organizing and mobilizing! We expect them to be out in force.
We need your voices in support of Resolution 152 on Thursday night to win this critical vote and continue on the path to bringing a 21st Century Transportation system to Dane County! Come and testify, or at least register your support for Resolution 152. Comments should be short (2 min max), and it’s as simple as telling a personal reason why enhanced transit will make a difference to you and your family (gas prices, convenience, reducing pollution, etc)!
RSVP to bspeight@wispirg.org, so that we can make sure we will have a large turnout Thursday. Help us show that Dane County is ready and eager to create an RTA and build a 21st century transit system!
What: Establishing a Regional Transit Authority, Dane County Board – Resolution 152
When: Thursday, Nov. 5, 7pm
Where: Room 201B City County Building
Also, in advance of the vote, please email the county board to express your support for Resolution 152 by sending an email here: county_board_recipients@co.dane.wi.us.
The creation of an RTA is the first critical step to developing a seamless, region-wide transit system in Dane County that grows our region and local economy, meets our needs, and reduces our dependence on oil. A public vote on RTA funding can only happen in the RTA service area if the RTA is created. The County Board’s action to create an RTA is an important step, following state law, that will lead to a public vote on local transit funding.
A Regional Transit Authority will provide stable governance for transit, instead of relying on year-to-year agreements between localities. It will function like a school board, which provides specific services in a particular area, which may include multiple municipalities. Ultimately, it will enhance transit and lead to the development of a seamless, region-wide transit system. Better transit provides more transportation choices, and makes development more cost-efficient. Even those who choose to drive can have transit as a backup, and transit can help lessen traffic congestion. Transit can also lower pollution, and can provide access to jobs for people who cannot drive.
For more information on the RTA, visit http://www.danetransit.org. For more information on 21st century transportation and the value of transit, visit http://www.wispirg.org/issues/transportation.
Join us Thursday to show your support for resolution 152. RSVP to bspeight@wispirg.org.
Bruce Speight
WISPIRG Director
(608) 251-9501
www.wispirg.org