I am writing to let the Post-Gazette and the public know that the reference to Pittsburghers for Public Transit’s news release in “Bus Rapid Transit Proposal Gets Good Reviews” (April 6) is a mischaracterization of our organization’s position. Using the word “praise” is not appropriate. We said that we see opportunities but also have many concerns.
We were surprised by how the article characterized our concerns as just questions for more information regarding “location of stations, whether there will be a charge for transfers, and how the new system would change scheduling for other routes into Oakland.”
We already know the stop spacing is proposed at one-third of a mile, and that could be a real issue for riders with mobility challenges. We are concerned not just about whether transfers would be free but also about the fact that so many riders would have to transfer. And we already know the local routes would come less frequently and are very concerned about that.
The city, county and Port Authority are asking for feedback on the four options to determine the “locally preferred alternative,” but they have not laid out the precise impact each option would have on riders’ commutes. For example, if a rider currently takes a 61A into town from Braddock, how exactly would his or her commute be different?
To see our full release, please go to: pittsburghforpublictransit.org/ppt-position-on-bus-rapid-transit-proposal/.
MOLLY NICHOLS
Director
Pittsburghers for Public Transit
Garfield
First Published: April 12, 2017, 4:00 a.m.