History:

Over the last 2 years TEAM congregations made public transportation a priority by asking our public officials to address inefficiencies with the bus system. Since the fall of 2004 the City worked to develop a “Renaissance Plan” which outlined project proposals seeking to improve the local transit system. TEAM pushed to make bus routes and bus shelters a priority for funding by both the City of Tallahassee and Star Metro.

#1 Problem: The current structure of the Star Metro bus system with only one hub (downtown at CK Steele plaza) is inadequate for widespread usage. The inordinate amount of time it takes for people to get to and from places because of this structure greatly reduces people’s ability to utilize public transportation for work. Being unable to rely on the bus to get to and from work on time has severe consequences for people trying to maintain their livelihood.

Commitment from 05 Action: Mr. Garrison of Star Metro agreed to prioritize funding for interconnecting bus routes in the 2007 budget. These routes would offer alternative transfer options for bus riders and reduce travel time.

Update: TEAM congregations continue to work with Star Metro to prioritize connecting bus routes. Due to new fare box technology on board the buses, passengers can now get a transfer ticket which can be used to change buses. Transfers must be made within 1 hour of riding the bus. One new bus route between FSU & FAMU campus and Governor’s Square Mall will be operating by December. Other routes planned for the next year include a route extending from the NE Wal-Mart through downtown and out to the airport.

#2 Problem: Too many bus stops lack the basic amenities that individuals need in order to wait safely for the bus (shelters, benches, sidewalks, lighting). Failure to provide these basic structures will compromise the safety of our residents.

Commitment from 05 Action:

Mr. Garrison agreed to place shelters in the following 5 locations:

• Harlem & Alabama across from Anderson Chapel AME
• Monroe Street in front of Lake Ella Publix shopping center
• Joe Louis & Volusia Street
• Miccosukee Rd. in front of Kate Sullivan Elementary School
• Martin Luther King Blvd & Tharpe across from Raa Middle School

Update: Three of the five bus shelters were erected at the areas identified. Due to the unsafe ditch at Joe Louis & Volusia the bus stop will have to be moved to a new site identified for shelter construction. Currently the City has to obtain right-of-way from On the Border Restaurant before constructing the shelter on Monroe Street. TEAM’s transportation committee is working with both entities to facilitate this process. To date Star Metro has placed over 30 new shelters in areas of need.