Parish
Why More Roads?
RECEIVED Wed., Feb. 6, 2013
Dear Editor,
Auto use statewide is declining and is near stagnant in Austin, yet the number of people using public transit rose 4.7% last year [“Headlines,” News, Feb. 1]. However, the vast majority of transport spending goes to building yet more roads. Why? Our elected officials – local, state, and federal – have been bought by the highway lobby (real estate, construction, oil, and autos). Maybe Cap Metro fares should include a political surcharge to raise money to buy some politicians who would provide the funding that public transit deserves.
Auto use statewide is declining and is near stagnant in Austin, yet the number of people using public transit rose 4.7% last year [“Headlines,” News, Feb. 1]. However, the vast majority of transport spending goes to building yet more roads. Why? Our elected officials – local, state, and federal – have been bought by the highway lobby (real estate, construction, oil, and autos). Maybe Cap Metro fares should include a political surcharge to raise money to buy some politicians who would provide the funding that public transit deserves.
Philip Russell
