Transit for Livable Communities-Sub

mntransit.org

Proposed cuts to transit resources

You can take action on this alert by reading the information below and following the directions at the bottom.

Issue

General fund cuts and bonding reductions

Background

Cuts to Metro Transit:

The Governor is proposing to cut the 2009 general fund appropriation to Metro Transit by $30 million. This is nearly 10 percent of the state transit budget. This is a larger share of cuts than any other state program. Testimony at this morning's House Transportation Finance Committee confirmed that these cuts would mean both reduced service and fare increases.

Bonding Bill reductions:

The Governors pressure for a smaller bonding bill is causing concern about possible reductions in transit bonding. Transit still needs the proposed $105 million to keep projects moving forward, including the Central Corridor light rail transit line and new bus lanes in downtown Minneapolis. The new sales tax will simply not generate enough money in 2009 to keep these capital projects moving forward.

Your message will be sent to each of the following targets:

Your State Representative
Your State Senator

A sample message appears below, which you may edit before sending.

Protect bus service and transit projects!

Dear Representative,
Please support transit by protecting Metro Transit funds for buses and transit projects in the bonding bill. Tell House and Senate leadership that your constituents support transit and oppose the Governor's proposed cuts!

Minnesotans need alternatives to driving, especially with gas prices rising and ridership at an all-time high. Metro Transit counted 77 million rides in 2007, and park and ride lots are filled to capacity. Why would we provide less service when we need more service?

Everyone in my community deserves the opportunity to get where they are going. Buses provide access to all residents, but especially those who can't drive: youth and elders, people without cars, and people with disabilities.

I want Minnesota to have a healthy economy and healthy environment. Transit provides economic and environmental benefits. Less money spent on gas means more money staying here in our economy. Buses and trains take people off the road, improving air and water quality!

Finally -- we need to invest in transit projects now to be ready for increased population in Minnesota. We can't afford to wait!
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Action Alert: Proposed cuts to transit resources