Transit: Can we talk facts here?

By RON GOVIN
Special Correspondent
Published: October 20, 2010

I'm compelled to set the record straight regarding the many inaccuracies regarding HART contained in Sharon Calvert's opinion piece published on Oct. 12.

As chairman of HART, I ask you to please take a few minutes to learn the facts about our organization.
Our community is growing. Our existing infrastructure already fails to meet our needs and will continue to fall further behind as our population expands. Opponents have incorrectly stated that HART refuses to address the issue of cost. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Let's talk facts about cost. We have two options. We can continue to handle growth in the way we always have – by building roads and neglecting public transit – or we can change our ways and adopt a comprehensive approach incorporating all modes of transportation. Which future carries the higher cost? Most would assume that a roads-only approach would be cheaper, but that's not the case.
Here is an example to illustrate the point:

To accommodate future traffic, I-275 between the University of South Florida and downtown Tampa would need to be widened to 12 or 16 lanes at a cost of more than $2.2 billion. The cost to construct light rail in that same corridor is estimated at only $900 million. This is less than half the cost to move the same or more people. This difference may surprise you, but with the exorbitant cost of land acquisition and construction, light rail is more cost effective than highways once you exceed eight lanes.

Now let's talk facts about the routes. The "alternatives analysis" is nearing completion, and the final routes are close to being selected. We know that from New Tampa to downtown Tampa and from downtown to the airport, light rail would run along one of two alignments. Detailed information about these alignments is available on our website, and final recommendations will be made once the analysis is complete.

Let's talk facts about HART. HART maintains a balanced budget. That's mandated by HART board policy. HART is not behind on the alternatives analysis. More time was needed so the public could give us their opinions about the routes. We're taking the time necessary to do this right the first time. It's critical that we do an accurate and thorough analysis that reflects citizen input rather than rush this important deliberation for the wrong reasons.

Finally, let's talk facts about the plan. This plan has been well researched, with over two years of study by the Hillsborough County Transportation Task Force and significant citizen input at numerous public hearings and hundreds of meetings.

Opponents criticize light rail as if it's the only piece of the pie. The truth is, no single alternative offers "the solution" to our transportation problem.

The countywide transportation plan is not just light rail. Every alternative Calvert advocates is included: more buses, bus rapid transit, more door-to-door service and expanded paratransit service for those with disabilities. The referendum on the ballot to fund this plan also includes 25 percent dedicated to road and intersection improvements, much-needed bike lanes and pedestrian walkways. It is a truly comprehensive plan.

On Nov. 2, you will decide the future of transportation in our community and I hope you will approach this historic opportunity armed with the facts. HART is ready to roll. Are you?

Ron Govin is chairman of HART, which recently won the prestigious American Public Transportation Association's 2010 Outstanding Public Transportation System achievement award for best mid-sized transit system in America.

For more information, please visit http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/oct/20/transit-talk-facts/news-opinion-commentary/