Transit funding is where justice and economics meet

Rev. Joan Ross lansingstatejournal.com: "There is yet another reason to increase investments in public transportation: The rights of those who are dependent on public transportation. Our seniors and young people, folks with low incomes and people with disabilities have just as much right to get around as people with private vehicles. A truly civil society respects everyone’s right to mobility, to get to school, medical appointments and work regardless of the person’s ability to drive or have access to a car.

There is a huge economic incentive for us to do the right thing. When we recognize the rights of the transit dependent and invest more in practical public transportation, hardworking folks will have reliable means to get to work. If we want to work towards increasing access to jobs and lowering the unemployment rate, we need to recognize everyone has a right to mobility. In short, public transportation is a key nexus between social justice and economic viability — and we need both."

Benzie County, Michigan. "People would rather take public transit if it's readily available."

Future of Benzie Transportation Authority discussed at public forum : News : UpNorthLive.com: "More than 50 community members gathered in Beulah for the forum.

They held brainstorming sessions to help identify future public transportation needs in the region.

This is the first step toward assembling a county-wide strategic transportation plan."

Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti #publictransit funding wins 70% of vote

Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti area voters approve transit millage - Ypsilanti Courier - Heritage Newspapers: "The five-year, 0.7 mill increase will generate an estimated $4,368,847 in 2014 which the AAATA plans to use to fund an intense increase in bus service throughout Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti Township. Homeowners with a home value of $100,000 can expect to pay an additional $35 each year."

What about public transit? Advocates say Michigan road funding push leaves riders on curb

MLive.com: "LANSING, MI -- Public transit advocates are urging Michigan lawmakers to look beyond roads and bridges as they debate long-term plans to increase annual infrastructure funding."