Sunday, October 12, 2008
Editorial: Christiansburg needs buses
Regional planners want citizen input on transit.
From the RoundTable blog
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For years, Christiansburg residents could only gaze jealously at Blacksburg's transit system. Sure, one bus route came into Christiansburg and hit a few central stops, but it was never good enough for regular commuting.
As the cost of gas rose, that jealousy slid into deadly sin. The price at the pump might have moderated a bit lately, but we suspect there are still a good many people in Christiansburg who envy Blacksburg's buses.
The two towns, Virginia Tech and Montgomery County want to find out for sure. Later this month, they will send survey forms to every household in Christiansburg asking what sorts of bus services citizens want.
Residents should keep an eye out for the forms and return them promptly so that the data accurately reflect the wants and needs of the community.
Christiansburg definitely needs something more.
The Two Town Trolley that rolls into town courtesy of Blacksburg Transit does the central loop, but it runs only in the afternoons during the week. That means it is useless for workers and students who must travel between the towns. Judging by traffic on U.S. 460 during rush hour, there are plenty of such commuters.
Christiansburg could use better internal coverage, too. The TTT hits only the commercial and government highlights. Routes into residential areas could serve far more people.
These days, public transportation makes sense on multiple levels. Riding the bus saves money, reduces the individual carbon footprint and eases congestion on area roads.
What's not to like?
Christiansburg residents also should pay attention over the next year. New routes, if any, would tentatively launch in late 2009. Before then, Christiansburg and Blacksburg will need to hammer out the details, including funding and oversight.
Maybe they will collaborate through Blacksburg Transit. Maybe Christiansburg will start its own transit agency. Citizen input will be important while making those choices.
For now, complete the survey and tell officials Christiansburg needs transportation alternatives, too.
