A pocket change transit tutorial from TRU Director Megan Owens:
I am often asked what’s so different between metro Detroit and other regions when it comes to transit and I’ve finally figured out a clear way to explain it.
Two quarters. Most major metro areas spend 50-cents per person per day to fund their regional transit system – including building and operating trains, light rail, buses, paratransit, and more.
Two dimes. In the Detroit area, we spend just 20-cents per person per day on transit. And we get what we pay for.
Detroit area politicians have been unwilling to ask taxpayers to spend an extra 30-cents to have the quality transit other cities enjoy.
Doesn’t make much sense, does it?!