Volume 2, Issue 4
May 2008
2008 Legislative Report on Transit, Bicycling, and Walking
Transit for Livable Communities, the Transit Partners coalition, and members of our action network worked hard during the 2008 legislative session to ensure that Minnesotans could have a more balanced transportation system—one that encourages smart development and more opportunities to take transit, walk, or ride bicycles--and that work really paid off. Find out what's up and what's down in transportation after this session.
Members Share Their Stories 
Recently we asked you to send us your thoughts on why Central Corridor and a region-wide transit system are important to you. Many of you responded with some fantastic words about why transit, biking, and walking are not only enjoyable but necessary for your daily lives. Check out some of the great stories here.
Great Commuter Challenge a Great Commuter Success! 
What’s the best way to navigate the Twin Cities during morning rush hour? Would a bicycle get you to work more quickly? Are the bus and light rail more relaxing? Is driving really all it’s cracked up to be?
Three celebrity contestants traveled an urban obstacle course of errands to find out: Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak rode his bike, Ramsey County Commissioner Toni Carter walked and took transit, and Star Tribune Roadguy blogger Jim Foti drove his car. Their verdict? Well, it depends on your priorities. Read more.
Metropolitan Council Approves Public Hearings for Higher Transit Fares
In May, the Metropolitan Council approved a plan to hold public hearings this summer on proposed fare hikes for Twin Cities bus and light rail riders. The proposed increases come at a time when ridership is booming, and demand is skyrocketing. Check out the dates of the public hearings and tell the Metropolitan Council what you think about higher bus fares!
Why is Equity Important in Our Transit System ?
Lea Schuster, TLC's Executive Director, and Jan Lysen, TLC Board Treasurer, recently attended the Regional Equity Conference in New Orleans. Lea wrote about her experience, explaining why we should not only ensure that residents in our region have more opportunities to take transit, walk, or ride bicycles, but we should also ensure that our development patterns provide all residents with the same access to social and economic opportunities.
Metro Transit Launches Bike2Benefits
If you just bicycle to work or to a transit stop once a week over eight weeks instead of driving alone, you can win some great prizes from Metro Transit through its Bike2Benefits program. Choose any eight-week period before Dec. 31 to start commuting by bicycle. Track your trips and mileage at this website. When you complete the program, you will automatically be entered in our year-end prize drawing. You’ll also receive a customized map of one of your routes (if you're a new bike commuter). Once your eight weeks are over, continue tracking your commutes and you’ll be eligible for even more incentives!
Michelle Dibblee Joins Transit for Livable Communities' Staff as Senior Organizer 
Transit for Livable Communities has hired Michelle Dibblee to be our new Senior Organizer. Michelle has worked for Transit for Livable Communities since February 2008 – her first day of work was the day the legislature over-rode the Governor’s veto of the transportation bill! Michelle leads TLC’s efforts to grow our membership base and strengthens member participation in hands-on advocacy and leadership development.
Events
Transit for Livable Communities Member Meeting. Join Transit for Livable Communities to celebrate victories for our regional transit system, the work of the Bike/Walk Twin Cities initiative, and look forward to upcoming work at TLC! The event will be held on June 23rd from 6:30-8:30 p.m. If you plan to attend, RSVP to Michelle Dibblee at MichelleD@tlcminnesota.org.
For more cool events, check out Transit for Livable Communities' calendar.
The Details
If you would like to subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter, please contact Katie Eukel at 651-767-0298 x115 or KatieE@tlcminnesota.org. Also, if you have questions, comments, or story ideas, please let Katie know.
