Enhanced public transit service must be in our planning toolbox, if we are to accommodate the travel needs of millions of new Californians. For instance, transit must be a partner in the design of our communities in order to efficiently serve our people. E conomic development requires sound transportation systems which move employers and customers to business sites. We are major partners in providing this transportation. T ransportation is vital to seniors and persons with disabilities to maintain control of their lives.
Transportation provides choices.
T o complete the financing picture, we note that transit operating dollars are invested primarily in providing direct service. W e are pleased to report that for the last decade, transit operating expenses have increased at or below California's average rate of inflation. In addition, fueling facilities are very costly. T he Americans With Disabilities Act requires both that we make all of our facilities and vehicles accessible, and that we provide paratransit service to all disabled Americans who cannot access fixed route service. W elfare reform has placed a special demand upon public transit.