More than any other city in Arizona that I can think of, Tempe loves it’s transit system. From the bus system to the Orbit neighborhood circulators to the very popular light rail system, tens of thousands of people move through Tempe neighborhoods each day via public transportation.
While a thriving public transit system has some very clear benefits, they do not come without costs. Budget cuts, economic pressures and changing business environments can all play a part in the services provided.
There have been many studies over the past few years concerning the viability of the Tempe transit systems. Our residents can be very passionate about what should and should not be cut and how much fares are raised for these public services. Does the Tempe Streetcar make $ense? Will people pay to ride the Orbit system? Thankfully, there are public forums where you can get information about these issues. Take a look at the information below and and participate in the process.
Tempe to host public meetings about transit system
Tempe residents are encouraged to attend public meetings to learn more about potential changes to the Local and Express Bus Systems and the Orbit neighborhood circulator, including a potential Orbit fare. The purpose of these meetings is to get input from passengers on potential changes that may occur in July 2012.
These meetings are part of a three-year public involvement process to develop the service changes necessary to help address a forecasted budget deficit due to the slowing economy. The Tempe transit system is funded primarily by a half cent sales tax, which has dramatically decreased causing Tempe to reevaluate the transit system in order to reduce costs.
Tempe values its transit riders and strives to provide the highest quality and most cost effective transit service to the community. Oversight of these funds require regular evaluation of the transit system performance to ensure resources are properly allocated to deliver an equitable, cost-effective and fiscally sustainable transit program that works for our whole community.
Transit service proposals will be available for comment from Feb. 25 through March 29 at www.tempe.gov/tim
Public meetings will be held:
Feb. 25 at 9 a.m., Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave., Tempe
Feb. 28 at 6 p.m.. Tempe Transportation Center Don Cassano Community Room, 200 E. Fifth St., Tempe
March 1 at 6 p.m.. Tempe History Museum. 809 E. Southern Ave., Tempe
For information call (480) 858-2350 or visit www.tempe.gov/tim
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