LETTER: Say ‘no’ to transportation cuts
The proposed budget cuts to our region’s public transportation is a decision that will severely impact our most vulnerable residents: low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities. Beyond mere convenience, public transit provides critical access to essential services and opportunities.
For low-income individuals, reliable, affordable transit is fundamental for accessing jobs, health care, and education – essential pathways out of poverty. Eliminating this access will only deepen economic hardship. Seniors, many of whom no longer drive, depend on public transportation to maintain their independence, enabling them to attend medical appointments, obtain groceries, and stay connected with their community. Proposed service reductions and fare hikes threaten to isolate our elderly population, diminishing their quality of life.
Accessible public transit is equally critical for people with disabilities, allowing for full participation in community life. The proposed decrease in the ADA service area and increased paratransit fares will disproportionately burden these individuals, creating barriers to inclusion and independence. Furthermore, in rural areas like Washington County, access to public transportation is vital for reaching medical specialists often located in larger cities. Reduced services could mean missed critical appointments and worsening health outcomes.
The proposed cuts, including a staggering 40% reduction in bus services and increased fares, will exacerbate these challenges. We must advocate for sustainable funding solutions that prioritize equitable access for all community members.
I urge our local leaders and policymakers to recognize the devastating consequences of these cuts and to actively seek alternative solutions that do not place an undue burden on those who can least afford it.
Investing in public transportation is an investment in our community’s future, fostering economic opportunity and social equity. Let us work together to ensure public transit remains a viable and accessible option for everyone in Washington County.
Rebecca MacTaggart
Washington