[CROSS-POSTED FROM MICHIGAN YOUTH POLITICAL ALLIANCE]

Michiganians are stuck on automobiles in more than one way. Not only is our economy dependent upon the Big 3 automakers, we rely solely on automobiles to get around our state–and now it is taking its toll.

A task force appointed by Governor Granholm recently released a report declaring that Michigan must double spending on roads and bridges otherwise “many will keep deteriorating and become unsafe.” The state spends about $3.2 billion a year on road and bridge maintenance, and now the task force recommends it to spend $6.1 billion a year for “good” conditions or $12.6 billion a year for “better” conditions. It is ridiculous how much taxpayer money goes towards fixing roads. The main propagator for this crisis? The lack of an adequate mass transit system anywhere in the state.

It might just be that the idea of single commuter transit is become embedded in every Michiganian’s mindset. It was once a sign of wealth and power as well as a tribute to the technology that gave them jobs and drove the state’s economy; however, now it is just an outdated method of travel that is more painful nostalgia than anything else. Now is a good time–no, needed time–to let go and say goodbye to the back and forth drive between your home and work, school or friends and say goodbye to the killer gas prices that average about $3.70 a gallon (lower than before but still a burden).

Michiganians have just started smartening up, starting with our governor. Governor Granholm recently decided to take the bus to work instead of drive, shifting the spotlight onto mass transit and its economical benefits. It’s simple really–you ride the bus, you save quite a bit of money from decreased fuel consumption and decreased spending on fuel. Transit ridership out on the West side of the state has risen, demonstrating the growing demand for public transit–and in effect, the need for increased public transit funding to improve Michigan’s public transit systems.

So far, Michigan has barely anything to offer. The only rail system we have is in Detroit, the People Mover, a troublesome and miniature 2.9 mile-long transit system with a pathetic 13 stops. Metro-Detroit has a poor and inefficient bus system and no rail system. Western Michigan has a bus system (though I have no idea about the quality). Ann Arbor and Lansing do as well. I am less clear on other parts of the state.

What we need is a long and connecting light rail system. People always complain about the poverty and grimness of Detroit, but if there was a better mass transit system sprawled across the Metro-Detroit area there would be significant economic improvements. Greater connectedness and ease of transportation mean people would be more likely to travel to Detroit. The areas around the rail system, especially the stations, would have the potential of becoming great business districts; thus, businesses would be attracted by and gravitate back towards Detroit. Jobs would be created in the city, providing more opportunities and hopefully preventing some crimes by decreasing incentives to commit them. Reconstruction and renovation of multiple parts of the torn city could finally be realized.

The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments is holding public meetings to discuss Southeast Michigan’s transportation system. Those would be great times to speak out on such a crucial topic in our state.

Don’t worry, I have not forgotten about the rest of the state either. The Western part of the state is currently interested in linking Grand Haven, Muskegon and Grand Rapids by bus. I think that’s a fantastic idea–regional busing systems could go very far in making it easier for people to travel to work, to friends, etc. Reducing fuel consumption and costs could go a long way for consumers because they have more money to spend elsewhere. Businesses, again, would sprout by bus stations, and there would be significant opportunities for revitalization of some city’s economies.

Fisher Coachworks LLC, an innovative hybrid bus manufacturer aimed at reducing mass transit costs, is a prime example of what kind of companies our state needs. We need public transportation companies to drive a portion of our economic development. A strong alternative energy sector could certainly complement them as well. But it is primarily up to our state government as to what is to be done. They are in charge of the 21st Century Jobs Fund, a fantastic opportunity for us to fund the companies that can put Michigan’s economy back at the top. I certainly hope they make the right decisions.

[CROSS-POSTED FROM MICHIGAN YOUTH POLITICAL ALLIANCE]