Considering an ever growing environmental consciousness and ever increasing gas prices, how is it Clayton County’s public transportation, C-Tran, ended service last year, while Gwinnett and Cobb Mass Transit systems along with MARTA continue to struggle?
Michael Bishop-online
ReplyDeleteHonestly as terrible as it is with all those people who depended on C-Tran, the county was smart and cut it's losses. Now days almost every branch of government is in serious debt and costing tax payers more and more each year. So by cutting a public service that is just costing money with no profit being made is a wise choice. I wouldn't want to be the one to make that sort of decision but from an economic standpoint you cant run a company if you aren't at least making back what you put in.
Kevin O | Online
ReplyDeleteI think with unempolyment is a big factor. No jobs means not enough people to ride Mass Transit. Also MARTA is the only Metro rail to run parallel to a major highway and it actually go slower. We need systmes like Japan has. They charge by the distance you travel and what transfers you take, not a flate rate. I used to take CCT / XPRESS to Atlanta in the mornings for a while and for me to be there at 9am I would have to leave my house by 5:54 and be on a bus at 6:30am. So much time wasted.
Lindsey B - online
ReplyDeleteI think part of it also has to do with the fact that public transit has become kind of unsafe. They were talking on the news about the amount of marta bus drivers taht have been attacked lately. Now atlanta has vowed that they will step up the police task force by providing regular clothed police officers on the lines that have been affected the most by violence. I think with all the fear of violence happening people are scared to be in a situation in which they can not control. More and more people are working from home, shopping from home with use of the internet, and homeschooling their children. Part of that may just be the convience part, but I also think some of it may that people feel safe in their home, they can protect their children, and they can control their surroundings. People would rather drive their own cars even if it cost more with gas becuase they can make sure that everyone in their car is safe. I think that as all of this continues to happen and the ever growing effect of global terror threats that eventually it will shut down.
I personally believe that the counties should do away with all the bus services in the area and make them private. Why should the taxpayers foot the bill for just a small few number of people that use them. Take a look at the buses running now on any given day or time of day and there will be less than 5 people on the bus. Im sure it would affect some people's way of life and some may not be able to afford a car, for that I am sorry but as a whole the taxpayers should not have to carry the load for those that don't have transportation. If were to be privatized you would still have a ride, it might just cost you a little bit more to still have the service. We have became a nation of wanting handouts from everybody. I work for one of those counties and now I am being furloughed and my pay lowered because they have to spend money on unneeded services. Take a look around you do you want an empty bus driving around town or would you like to see a firetruck or policecar come to your house when you have an emergency. It wont be important to you, until it's you or your loved ones needing help.
ReplyDeleteDanielle S. Online
ReplyDeleteI feel horrible for the people that have to take C-Tran if that is there only means of getting back and forth but the fact still remains whats the point of wasting money if it is not profiting or helping out the county. With everyone struggling money needs to be put into things that will contribute more of a profit, instead of taking what little is left.
Danielle S. Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Michael Bishop I would have to agree with your comment if your not at least making back the money you put in, than it is a total loss.
Charlene G- online
ReplyDeleteI think that the reason they are struggling is because of what is going on the high unemployment rate. I see people now looking for jobs in the area they live that is walking distance only because those few extra dollars is something they need to hold onto for emergencies. I for one have never had the chance to take a bus so i do not know how they run,but i do know that there has been trouble with attacks lately from what i hear on the news so that could be another issue why Marta and other transits are struggling.
Charlene G online- in response to Lindsey B
ReplyDeleteI agree strongly about the attacks.From hearing what happened on the news i dont ever want to ride on one. I have always been curious about where they travel and how far they travel too, but now i rather just put the extra money i have in the tank.
Nicolette E.-online
ReplyDeleteI believe that its a combination of all the issues mentioned by other bloggers. The unemployment rate, the government cutting cost, and the unsafe conditions. In the news there is frequent issues with people who ride Marta who are attacked or harrassed. I hate to ride Marta and don't see it as a viable option for transportation.
Nicolette E.-online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Lindsey B.
I completely agree about it being unsafe. I took my children to see a game downtown-rode marta and my four year old was harrassed by a drunk 20 something on his way to a different event. I'm sure that is mild compared to what happens everyday on the news, but bottomline is I don't feel safe and I don't want to use the service until it becomes safe.
Chris D.
ReplyDeleteI think its not so much a class issue. I lived in NJ and had to take 2 buses to get to work. I took me about 2 hrs and i had to get up when it was still dark but I had to do what I had to do. In contrast the public transit issue in the south is coverage. There just aren't enough stations to get the volume of passengers you need to make a profit. Its a size/budget issue. Atlanta is just too large, so it would take a substantial amount of money to build an effective integrated transit system that is cost effective.
In response to Danielle S.
ReplyDeleteI agree that if a company does not make money they should shut it down, especially if they don't make more than what they put out.
Deborah B. online
ReplyDeleteI think mass transit is inefficient. The systems have not been ugraded in very long time. Every business needs to keep with the times in order to be productive and profitable. Mass transit is no exception. Also, I think safety is a reason for the loss in ridership. Every day you hear stories. Another reason might be that they have never expanded into Cobb and Cherokee County. If they did they might find more ridership.
In response to Kevin O. Online
I agree that unemployment has reduced the people who use mass transit. It makes sense. Also, I see your point about the time wasted. If you figure how much time it takes you vs. driving most people will opt to drive.
Tiffany F. online
ReplyDeleteCobb and Gwinnett counties are so much bigger than Clayton county so you can't even begin to compare them with the small Clayton county. Marta serves the metropolitan Atlanta area, which is also bigger than Clayton county as well. When it comes to having difficulties financing a small county's transit operation, less is more. If the county is spending big money on transit, and not making a profit from it, then what's the point? The other transit systems are surviving because more people live and travel in those areas and the counties are making a profit.
Caitlin Leake - Online
ReplyDeleteI must say that the lack of profit these transportation systems are receiving is most likely because of the danger of traveling on them. In addition to the safety problems, the economic downfall is absolutely another factor. When so many jobs are lost, there arent going to be people to utilize the transportation systems in place.
Caitlin Leake - Online
ReplyDeleteIn Response to Tommy H.
Well said. I fully agree that these transportation systems should be privatized. I can't stand the way some people in our country expect to have everything they want or need handed to them. I would much rather spend money on public safety than on transportation that I NEVER use.
Christina C. - Online
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, I think it was cost-effective to shut down the C-Tran. Now, I don't know what all is in Clayton but I can guarantee that MARTA and other transportation systems are needed more. MARTA takes you all over the Atlanta area which is great because there are a lot of businesses there. It provides a semi-convenient way to travel quickly without running into morning rush hour traffic. However, it is still flawed because you have to be close to the lines to even gain access, so either way you would still have to drive.
For example, there is a transportation system called CCT Paratransit that takes people with disabilities to their locations in Marietta. I am in a wheelchair and lack a van to take it, so I was excited about this service. However, it turns out that where I live is not in the location and would have to drive a mile for them to pick me up. One mile. Really? This is where our transportation system is flawed, it lacks connectivity.
Christina C. - Online in response to Kevin O. ...
ReplyDeleteI definitely see your point on wasted time. My friend had to be at class at 8 and at the time she was living with me. She had to get up at 5 just to get there by 8 because she had to get a ride to the bus stop, ride a bus, then two trains. Public transportation is a lot of work. However, I don't think it should be casted out because a lot of people like students in the city use it to get home.
I believe the transit systems work better in highly saturated areas. It is unfortunate that Clayton County cut its public Transit, especially for the elderly who do not drive and those who do not have their own means of transportaion. I think that in poorer areas (where they need it the most) they do not get the money to operate such programs due to the lack of contribution from their commuity. However, in more economically developed counties such as Cobb, there is more money to put into those progams. I personally liked taking the Xpress via CCT to work, it gives me an hour to pop open my laptop and complet (or at least start) an assignment-- time I would generally waste during my morning commute.
ReplyDelete--Aqeelah A. Rahim
You do have a point every business does need to keep with the times in order to be productive and profitable.
ReplyDeleteAdditionally, there are numerous safety concerns. I've heard more stories about bus drivers hitting people, accidents involving public transit here than anywhere I've lived in my life. Just yesterday I heard that a bus driver drove 600ft with a lady's arm lodged in the door of the bus. I can't even imagine what being drug alongside of a bus feels like. I’m sure this contributes to lack of funding (I bet a lot of their money is going to legal and lawsuits).
Maurice G online
ReplyDeleteI think that when looking at the counties that are mentioned here, if we look at the size of the counties. Gwinnett, Cobb, and Fulton seems to be much larger than Clayton. I think that in the larger areas, the transit system is struggling just as everywhere else, but the number of people that cutting the transit system out would make it difficult on many people. So I think that these bigger counties will do what they have to do to keep the system running just because they are aware of the number of people that it could affect. Theese counties may even loose money that is generated form the transit system. Again, I don't know the size of Clayton county, but just for the number I don't believe the population is as big.
Maurice G online in response to Aqeellah
ReplyDeleteI agree with and like what you said about being able to open the laptop and at least start assignments on your way to work while being on the transit system. And money is the key to everything, I just don't believe that Clayton was generating the funds that the others areas are. therefore they could shut down there system, but the larger areas although struggling are still able to maintain. I know that shut down certain routes, but if you look I bet the routes that were shut down didn't generate as much revenue as in areas that are still open.
Tiffany F in response to Aqeelah
ReplyDeleteCobb isn't the only one doing well in mass transit. Atlanta (Marta) is doing extremely well with an average of 500,000 riders a day for bus and rail. This doesn't even include paratransit, which are the smaller buses for the disabled. So, Atlanta is doing well with mass transit and keeping many people employed.
Kevin O | Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Michael
I had heard that they were supposed to build an elevated rail on 75 north to extend to Wade Green Rd. But you're right, where are they going to get the money. They have the money but are too greedy. MARTA is so corrupt.
Lauren Puopolo
ReplyDeleteWell unfortinatly every county has to decide on what they need to cut so that they can save alittle money. A lot of people use the Marta system it gets used enough for it to stay open and the same with Cobb Transit. I get stuck behind on of those busses all the time. They also have to take into consideration how many people will get put out of work because they shut down the system. Those busses cost more in gas to fill up than a car does. So it really all depends on the counties population and how many people use it.
Joey Roberts
ReplyDeleteI believe that these struggle because it is seemingly frowned upon to use or to need to use the public transit systems. People would rather take the convenience and social status of driving a car, than they would save money by taking public transportation. Another reason these industries are struggling is because of the rise in fuel cost, with a still much too low cost for riding. The cost to operate does not reflect the cost charged to the riders of these bus' which is a major issue.
Lauren Puopolo in responce to Maurice G online
ReplyDeletePopulation whys i Cobb and Gwinetta are bigger than Clayton. Cobb county I know will be lossing money if they get rid of the transit system because a lot of people use them. Not to mention that the unemployment rate will go way up.
Moiya H. - Online
ReplyDeleteI think it has today with the counties budget for transportation cost. i also think it has to do with demand. There Fulton and Dekalb county which service Marta and they are bigger than clayton and problay have more people paying for public tranportation. Although their budget is streched also, it is bigger. Cobb County and Gwinnett County are also have bigger budgets, but because the demand isn't as big as marta they have very limited schedules to keep costs down.
Moiya H. -Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Tiffany F.
I agree you can't even compare clayton to these larger counties with bigger budgets and higher demand for public transportation.
Michael Bishop-online in response to Lindsey B
ReplyDeleteI agree safety is becoming a big concern and families are starting to take even more measures to stay safe so unless no one could afford a vehicle it is safe to say that most public transportation is going to shut down.
Florence G.
ReplyDeleteI quite agree that the economy plus the state's small budgets are responsible for these problems. However i do not see myself riding in the train for a long time.It is like this is where the gangs come to settle their scores. It is not a safe ride for anyone,especialy kids.I believe those who still ride do so for lack of other means.
I have no idea about the public transportation system here. Generally speaking though, all of the above make sense as for possible reasons of the decline in the transportation system. if it is shut down feel bad for the people whose only means of transportation is public. Also, wouldn't there be a substantial amounts of jobs lost? that also would be devastating.
ReplyDeleteRESPONSE TO Nicholette E.
ReplyDeleteIf safety is an issue I'm sure that contributes to the problem. I have children and would not choose to ride public transportation because of safety issues.
Kathy S. Online
ReplyDeleteFor me, it has always been a matter of convenience. It was never a convenient choice for me to use public transportation, because my job as Director of Business Development, always involved the use of my car, every day for meetings with potential clients. Now, with all of the safety issues, I probably wouldn't use public transportation even if I could!! I do feel bad for the people who used C-Tran. My husband works for American Airlines and whenever I had to pick him up at the airport, there were always at least two C-Tran buses unloading and loading and they were always full. So many people that worked at the airport depended on C-Tran for transportation to work!!
Kathy S. Online in response to Kevin O.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your statement. I think that the unemployment rate has played into the decline in ridership!! I also agree with the convenience factor of taking so long to get from point A to point B. If they made it safer, faster, etc., they would probably see an increase in use!!!!
Alton P Online
ReplyDeleteThis whole thing is what you call a vicious circle. All county`s are strapped for cash then their are no jobs so people have no use for the bus, but then you had people whose only transportation to work was the bus they can`t get there so again they lose their jobs. So if there is nobody working nobody`s paying taxes to fund the county. Round and round we go.
Megan Mcfarland-Online
ReplyDeleteI think it is wrong that they closed C-Tran because people now have no way to get to work if they don't have cars. As many people that ride that I dopn't see how they closed it. I had to ride Marta one time and the train was so full. If they made them safer then maybe more people would ride them. It is scary to ride one of them because of the crime that happens. I would never ride one by myself. But if they changed the security and made that better then maybe they would do better.
In response to Kevin O. and Kathy S.
I do agree with both of you for the safety and time. It took me an hour to get from the airport to my dad's car in the middle of the night. Even with my dad there is was still scared and he was a correction officer at the time and knew how to do personal defense.
Alton P online @Caitlin, and @ Tommy H
ReplyDeleteThe Majority of the people do not expect a hand out, because you are fortunate to have a car not everybody is, because you were fortunate enough to grow up in a good neighborhood with a good school not everybody is. Nobody I know says to himself when I grow up I want to be on unemployment or take the bus wherever I need to go or stand out at the stop at midnight nobody chooses that. Would you rather them stay home and collect welfare. The circumstances for people to have to use public transportation I could right a book. Think about this what about the person who rides the bus because they want to their tax dollars pay to maintain highways which you drive on in your car and they may not have kids but their tax dollars go to public school maybe your kids go to. There might be things out there you use and other people don`t, but still pay for with their taxes. Their is social responsibility and everybody should care about everybody that is why our society is so screwed up too many people think about the material There is alot that can be gained by people using public transportation alot more than not Atleast some people could get to their minimum paying jobs.
It's unfortunate that the C-Tran was taken. There are many people that use public transportation. For some it's an option and for others they have no choice. Either way it goes, I think that as a community we depend on Public Transportation. I cannot imagine how businesses would stay afloat for long if there was no such option. You would be surprised to find out that the workers who keep businesses open (teller at the bank, your insurance agent, social workers) in GA depend on some kind of public transportation.
ReplyDeleteThink about all the HS kids catching the transit bus to school. I think that communities should support and fund public transportation. It’s selfish to think that because we don’t use it, that we can or should do away with it. Nothing is promised. I’ve met a homeless doctor (non-practicing, obviously) and a millionaire Starbucks barista (who catches the MARTA train to work, but owns several vehicles). Public transportation is not just for under privileged people. It’s used by a variety of professionals, tourists, and disabled people who all contribute to our society in some way, shape, or form.
In the AJC the Commissioner State that the 45 million dollars had to be spent on the roads. I understand that the roads need to be repair gravely, but with all of the they could have found some way to make sure funding available to keep the C-tran running.
ReplyDeleteObviously, the people in Clayton County public transportation have their priorities screw up. Where at the other counties feel it is a necessity for so many people’s daily lives.
I agree the C-tran should have never been close down. If they would take the time and look at the number of people who need public transportation. If it were them maybe they would have a different opinion.
ReplyDeleteRondi W Online
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately Atlanta including Metro Atlanta is notorious for its inadequate transit system. Metro Atlanta and Atlanta need to work together for a solution. The SPLOST money could be put to a better use if everyone would share but like all things greed is alive and well. Every county needs a forensic book keeper to look at their finances. In this economy I am sure many are robbing from Peter to pay Paul. The issue now is robbing back from Paul to pay Peter. It’s a vicious cycle. If you find the waste and missing money, money that gets pocketed by unscrupulous individuals, you would probably be able to fund a decent mass transit system to serve all of Metro Atlanta and connections to other hubs of Georgia.
The majority of the population would take the transit system if it were worth the time and effort. The cooperation with other counties for connecting routes needs a lot of work. The other failure was the failure to put through the Northern Arc. This would relieve a lot of congestion through the city. Also public transportation has its risk. You never know who you are riding with, you’re a sitting duck on Marta or a bus if someone gets on at a stop and robs the bus or train, adequate security would also add to the cost. There has to be a solution, but it will involve state wide cooperation and buy in to keep the transportation system public and not private. Every politician since the 60’s and 70’s had the idea that there is not enough money to have a mass transit system and make it rapid. Well compare the cost of what the system would have cost in the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s compared to now. Things are not getting cheaper.
Rondi W In response to Aqeelah
I agree all walks of life benefit from mass transit. It is a necessity for many to get to work. It’s unfortunate that workers can’t get to their jobs because of it.
Courtney A Online
ReplyDeleteBusiness wise that was the best decision Clayton county. As with ever county there are bad things that go along with that such as possibly rising the unemployment rate higher. Now on the residents side that was a horrible move because alot of people that really depended on C-Tran to get everywhere lost the jobs. Other counties are going through the same thing its just Clayton County stepped up to teh plate fist to cut their loses
Courtney A
ReplyDeleteIn response to Tiffany F
I agree with you about comparing the size of the county, bigger counties mean more residents meaning you have a better chance of people using the transit system which means an actual profit for the county
Lesley G. Online
ReplyDeleteThis is an interesting question. I really had to think about this one... I'm not even sure I've heard of C-Tran. Where I live it is CTC, but anyways...I wonder if the reason it is no longer in business is because of unemployment. If people have no where to go, they have no reason to ride. I'm just not too familar with the public transportation system or Clayton county, so I feel kind of silly even trying to answer this question. I don't feel like I know enough to answer it fairly. I also wonder if maybe (as someone mentioned above) money is an issue... I'm sure it probably was.
Lesley G. Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Nicolette E.-online
I think that is a very wise thought saying that it is a combination of many things listed on this blog. I think that is true!
And for me, unsafe conditions would be a HUGE reason for me not to ride with the public transportation systems.
Matthew Johnson-Online
ReplyDeleteThe reason why the bus transportation is failing is because of poor economy growth. The massive unemployment rate that simply won't go away is affecting public transportation. If there aren't enough people using the bus system then there aren't enough fund coming in to cover the overall cost to fuel the buses and etc. Even though the transportation system is being paid by tax payers there must be a balance. Overall the unemployed is hurting. The rise of the gasoline prices continue to soar throughout Georgia. Limited routes also don't help the situation when trying to gain more passengers. They need to expand all bus transportation systems and make it a safer and easier way to communicate to and from the cities that uses the bus transportation systems currently. Another reason why the bus transportation is struggling is probally because of poor managing of money within the transit companies. I am totally sick of it all, why can't we all work together in such a society. Politicians that control the money within a waistfull government is just an example of why everything fails.
Lauren Puopolo
ReplyDeleteIt all depends on the county on the whether or not the county transit system will shut down or not. I think that the reason that Cobb and Gwinnett transit system is still running is because they have enough people still using them. Unlike in Clayton but then you have counties like Paulding who are just now starting up a transit system and it us doing well. So all in all it depends on who the economy is doing in that county.
Matthew Johnson-Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Courtney A-Online
You are so right. There should be certain area that should have a larger transportation system, but those smaller areas should still have a transportation system but just not so massive. I say let more privately owned companies provide transportation to the communities that cannot fund transportation entirely.
Lauren Puopolo in response to Matthew Johnson
ReplyDeleteIt is failing because of the economy and so are a lot of other businesses. As gas goes up so will everything else and so will the cost of a bus ride. I think that the politicians need to get with the people and decide on how to spend the governments money.
J. Barrington
ReplyDeleteI personally never used public transpertation. I don't know why. I always used my feet, a skateboard, or a bike. Maybe people want to be self reliant and do thigs on their own. If you don't have a car, walk. If you need to get to work, ride a bike.
Maurice G online
ReplyDeleteWhen thinking about the counties that are mentioned here, I think that the difference is the amount of money within each of these counties. I am not real sure of Clayton County as I live on a different side of town, but I am familiar with the number of people that use the transit system withing the big three if you will (Cobb, Gwinnett, Fulton). I think that the economic status of these counties is a bit different than Clayton County. With the size and the amount of people that use the system, it would be difficult if these systems were to completely shutdown. So I think that the big three would maybe cut cost or routes in areas that may not generate as much revenue, but I think that they will continue to struggle but will keep there services operable.
Maurice G response to Lauren Puopolo
ReplyDeleteI agree with you when you say that it depends on the economy of the county. I think that once a county see that the more people use the system and it brings in money, then it is easier for the county to manipulate the system and keep it running. But if nothing is being generated, the get rid of the program. So I agree, it depends on the economy of the county.
Chucky C Online …
ReplyDeleteIn response to Aqeelah
Most of the people that will feel the negative impact are already hurting, poor and are unemployed. The decision by Clayton county public transportation to end C- Tran service is very unfortunate. At a period the country is trying to get out of recession, with no job, it’s the same class that will no longer have a means of transportation all due to the quest for profit by Clayton County.
Chucky C Online…
ReplyDeleteMaking profit or cutting cost is ok, but I personally disagree with the decision C- Tran took but, I hope they did the right thing. In my opinion C-Tran, end of service year is very difficult to imagine. No matter what the situation was like at the Clayton County ending public transportation is not a step in the right direction. U.S. government gives out so much to other nations yet we can’t afford to give to a County that in need of funds to keep its public transportation functioning.
Jeryl C. Online
ReplyDeleteI think alot of it has to do with economic class, the cost to run public transit and it's impact on the different area's that it covers. C-tran might not have had a big enough user base to fulfill the monetary demands required to keep it running, whilst MARTA serves an area with a denser population in an area less easily accessible by a passenger vehicle.
Kevin O | Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to J. Barrington
I wish more people thought like you. My uncle (back many years ago) used to ride his by to and from work about 15 miles each way rain or shine. Thats when gas was around 70 cents a gallon though. Maybe MARTA should give incentives to riders with bikes, etc.
There is 308 million people living in America right now, 41 million of those are kids another 16 million are the elderly, leaving 251 million taxpayers. Of the those 251 million taxpayers 39 million pay no taxes at all and contribute nothing to this society. Now of the 212 million taxpayers 82.4 million(nearly half) people are dependent on the Government(aka the taxapayer)in someway or the other. The taxpayers spend a total of 2.3 TRILLION a year to help those 82 million people a year. As a society we can not continue down this path, it is not possible to continue spending more money when less is coming in. To continue pouring money into unprofitable services will spell disaster for other services that are much more needed, like taking care of the elderly,or needy children. If the bus services were to be privatized the service would still be there to be utilize for those that dont have transportation and that money could be used for other services. There is a reason why only just a few counties have public transportation, because it is not a profitable venture for local governments. You say there is a social responsibility for everyone to care about everyone else, wouldn't that be called a form of socialism. Life is about choices and we all have outside influences that are beyond our control,but the choices we make can make us better people.
ReplyDeleteMartha-Jane A.
ReplyDeleteI think it's because almost everyone in Atlanta has a car anyway, parking isn't THAT expensive in Atlanta, and the MARTA system hasn't got that many stops. The people who ride MARTA end up having to walk a mile or two to where they're going and statistically, the southeast is the laziest of all of the regions in the United States. Saw it on yahoo news not too long ago that we're the most obese and resistent to exercise. Also MARTA has a bad reputation. My sister rode it last month and a lady told her before she got on that she needed to turn her engagement ring around. Mary Ellen politely asked why, and the lady said, "Somebody might cut it right off you." This was a woman who daily rides MARTA telling her this...so, I think it's a lot of things.
It probably happened because the lack of funding the state is giving to its county's. The state probably doesn't even care about the public transit anymore. I mean, it's a thought considering that all forms of public transportation seem to be struggling now. That isn't right for the people who can't afford a car or even the high gas prices right now. The county's shouldn't have to cut away that essential tool for those kinds of people. Then, from what I read, the bus is apparently a very dangerous place too. Maybe if the funding was going to into the public transportation system then maybe they could step up security?
ReplyDeleteIn response to Chris D.
ReplyDeleteI agree one of the main reasons mass transit is not as used in Metro Atlanta is the lack of coverage. Everything is so spread out it is unfeasible much of the time and it leaves no room to be spontaneous. I would use it more than I do if it went near the places I frequent plus getting from Cobb to any other part of Atlanta via transit is ridiculous. This transplant is frustrated with the options.
I think people would be open to public transit if it is fast, affordable, efficent and has good coverage. This is not the case from personal experience and what I hear at work and from friends. The geography of the Metro area is a major factor in the problem. The places you want and need to go are often so spread out that it takes too much time to use public transit and very often there is no coverage where you need to go. The cost of a day pass on MARTA is $8, if two or three people are traveling together that's just not cost effective plus it takes forever. I love the transit in D.C. and the Northeast but so far it just does not work as well as it could and needs to to be viable in the minds of many in the Metro area.
ReplyDeleteStephanie S. Online
ReplyDeleteI believe MARTA is struggling because its just easier to drive. When choosing to use the MARTA system you have to wait for a certain time when it comes, then once you get on there are many delays and no way of knowing what time you will get to your destination. Also, MARTA causes a safety issue with all that is going on these days. When you drive you know when your going to leave and when you should arrive to your destination, and you dont have to worry about getting stabbed.
Stephanie S. Online in response to Stephen,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree, many of the places that people need to go are not in the transit route so after dealing with the system they still have to walk if its even in walking range.
I think mass transit such as marta needs to cover a larger area. For me I would ride marta to work but it would take me longer to get to a marta station than it does to get to work because I would have to drive out of my way. It's easier to pay the gas money. Also in cobb county the bus stops are few and far between. For example my sister in law has to walk a mile and a half just to get to the bus stop from the house.
ReplyDeleteAshanti P. Online
ReplyDeleteIt sucks that they had to end C Tran because a lot of people depended on them for transportation. Even though the news is saying that unemployment is falling, a lot of people are still without jobs. Many people have to walk, catch rides, or even ride a bike just to get to there jobs. And a lot of people lost there jobs due to the shutdown. I understand that it had to be cut because supposedly not enough many came in, but I just believe it was handled wrong because a lot of people rode the bus. Marta is getting more dangerous and cct doesn't have enough stops. I'm just thankful for a car.
Ashanti P. Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Stephanie S. Online
I totally agree with you. I only use marta if there is an event downtown that I know that there is limited parking. And with all the crime going on I wouldn't blame anyone who wouldn't ride.
Matthew S ONLINE
ReplyDeleteI would have to say that it was a bad idea to cut the train system from Clayton County. There are many people who depend on the train systems because a lot of people have lost their jobs and either had to have their own support of transportation taken away from them, or they simply cannot afford the high gas prices that we have today.
Matthew S Online
ReplyDeleteI agree with Charlene G. Like I said in my post, many Americans have lost their jobs. They cannot afford to pay for a train ticket so they end up walking or car pooling.
Jillian Downs - Online
ReplyDeleteWell, I will be honest in saying that I don't really know much about local news, so I have no idea about the public transit systems and whatnot. But, I can guess that since Clayton county is so much smaller than Gwinnett and Cobb that has a lot to do with it. If the exact same number of people were unemployed in all three of these counties, the percentage would be much higher in Clayton since it is smaller. So, if there is a loss of money in Clayton in any way, it would be very likely to badly effect things that rely on the funding, such as the public transit.
Jillian Downs - Online
ReplyDeleteReply to: Taylor Vaughn
I agree that they should not cut the public transit. With the way that gas is now and the high prices for even used cars, sometimes people just cannot afford to do anything but take the bus.
Melissa D.
ReplyDeleteI am not from Georgia, so I am not very familiar at all with the transit systems they have in place. I am shocked to hear that they have closed one train and the others struggle due to having lived in Chicago and the L system being so big and St. Louis has Metra, which again is widely used. I think with the congestion of Georigia freeways public transportation should be used more freeing up the congestion and help aliviate so many accidents.
Olalekan O Online
ReplyDeleteI am shocked that they would close the C-Tran down. Firstly they are worried about the cost of running the service but what they should have been concerned with is that the crime rate would increase due to those people who don't have a means of getting to work. No job, more crime.The government is pumping money into unnecessary things instead of worrying about unemployment and crime. The areas in which Ctran operated was a low class area, so i feel like that was another reason why they stop running the service and did not care about how the people would get around. I found it to be so disturbing to know that people have no way of getting around if they do not have a car. Come on its not a small town where everything is in reach, people need to get AROUND.
Olalekan O online in response to J. Barrington.
ReplyDeleteI found it very funny that you said you ride or walk everywhere. What if it was raining or if it was a long way. Easier said than done. Luckily for you, you were able to get where you needed in that matter. But for the people in Clayton county they cannot do that if they have a job in downtown Atlanta or so if they have no means of getting there.Walking would not cut it. lol
Alexandra S.
ReplyDeleteI think that they are losing busyness mainly because people think it's not safe. Marta goes into areas that aren't so nice and also into the suburbs and people just don't want to risk it. But if it's not making profit then why have it.
Lauren G
ReplyDeleteIn response to Tommy H
I agree with you, if a company is not making much profit off of their business it should be shut down and closed, unless they find some other type of way to make the business profitable.
I just resently moved to Atlanta and don't know much about the counties that are effected by MARTA, but I will try to relate it to the Tran system in Chicago.
ReplyDeleteI can see the remaining counties continue to struggle with the lack of job in the area of their rutes, causing a decrease in travers on their system. People are commuting longer distances to work and living anyhere near the system is either too risky or too expensive. My father commutes to downtown Atlanta from Lilburn and with his job he is unable to cummute via the Marta because he travels to businesses outside of the system. So to sum it up - I think that the lack of jobs close to downtown Atlanta are going to cause the remaining counties to struggle.
I don't know who posted this because there is no name so here's the post:
ReplyDelete"I think mass transit such as marta needs to cover a larger area. For me I would ride marta to work but it would take me longer to get to a marta station than it does to get to work because I would have to drive out of my way. It's easier to pay the gas money. Also in cobb county the bus stops are few and far between. For example my sister in law has to walk a mile and a half just to get to the bus stop from the house."
I agree that a larger coverage area would be better; however, I would like to know who would like to pay for the expansion - not I! But of course we know that they will tax all of GA for it. Our government is so broke at the moment - you see how much they are cutting on HOPE and other programs. I think that our state government would be benefitted if they had a sales portion. Where they can sell goods and services (more so than public transportation going to the counties) to help pay for a larger Marta system, better parks, create MORE jobs, encourage more education throughout the grades, and most importantly possibly boost morale in this aweful economy!
Martha W - Online
ReplyDeleteI think the Transit systems are struggling just like most other businesses. Higher gas prices would make most think these systems would thrive; however you have to consider the economy, unemployment rate, and economy. The only time I personally would have the opportunity to use transit would be for events in Atlanta, but I choose to pay higher prices for gas rather than use these systems due to safety issues.
Martha W - Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Stephanie S
I agree with Stephanie, it would be difficult trying to arrive at your destination in a timely manner when relying on publice transit. In our fast paced world every minute is crucial, so driving and staying on schedule is a necessity for most of us.
Ryan M Online
ReplyDeleteWith the low economy and high gas prices, it was inevitable for public services to take a hit. You have to make money to stay in business. Without it, you're just wasting tax payers money. Cut your loses while you can.
Rory H. - online
ReplyDeleteI think it has a lot to do with mismanagement of money. I think a lot of these businesses got used to wasting lots of money, and when the tough times hit, instead of restructuring their business models, they just keep beating a dead horse until there was nothing left and they went out of business. I think that the ones that are continuing to struggle, atleast have a shot at restructuring their business model to survive. Just like everything else, you either adapt and survive or keep doing things like you've always done and fade out.
In response to Jessica K. -
This is the type of stuff that I am talking about. Instead of the solution of just closing a business, is thinking outside of the box and think of how to keep the business afloat. Sometimes that means changing the structure of the business and sometimes that means getting rid of key people instead of doing away with the whole business or service.
Vanna H, Online:
ReplyDeleteI think it is costing more to maintain these systems that what it is really worth. With the economy being the way it is, counties cannot afford to provide these services that are only costing more rather than creating revenue. Also, these systems create other issues for the people that ride them, such as time. The time they have to wait for them, and then the time it will take to get to point a to point b. It may be a lot more beneficial for these people to just carpool.
In response to Kevin O, Online:
I agree with these systems being slow. Time is money! I had to take the bus to attend a conference in Atl. It was the worst decision I had ever taken. I had left my house earlier than what I was supposed to just in case something happened. I was still late! I drove my car the next day and what a difference. Needless to say, I have never used MARTA again.
Sarah Collett - ONLINE
ReplyDeleteTransit systems are great for environmental factors. However, they're terrible on terms of convenience. The transit systems for one thing do not go everywhere people want them to go at the times the need to go. So yes people are saving money on gas but it causes a burden on the routine of there daily life. Also, with the unemployment being as high as it is and with the suffering economy people are forced to take jobs far away they wouldn't normally take but have to take because they need the work. Therefore these transit systems do not take them to where they need to go. The reason transit system would not be appropriate for me is because I am a hospice aide. Therefore I have to travel in my car to different areas. I cannot do this without my own car and the ability to go where and when I want to. Our community is not set up to successfully work using transit system as NYC does.
Sarah Collett - ONLINE
ReplyDeleteIn response to Martha W.
I agree that just like any other business they are suffering to. That's an obvious angle I didn't see.
I never heard of this type of transit before. I do not know half the story, but as I read some of the comments here I got ideas. It seems that C-Tran didn't have enough money to pay its costs and/or not enough people were riding the C-Tran. It is possible that it became unsafe with crime that people didn't want to ride in it anymore.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Kevin O: I agree that we would have a system like Japan does. It would all work out with charging by the distance instead of flate rate.
Lisa L - Online
ReplyDeleteIf a business is not making money, then the best thing is to cut all losses and get out. Sure, the public transportation is a convienent way of getting around for many. Times are tough for everybody, even businesses and public services.
In Response to Tommy H replies to Alton P. online said...
I agree, why should we honest, hard working taxpayers be responsible for paying for the other peopl in this country.
Daryn L - Online
ReplyDeleteWith the economy the way it is, I feel that it is a combination of things that are leading to the downfall of the public transportation systems. People that would normally take the transit systems to work are unemployed, the fuel costs for the buses have skyrocketed, and people are trying to cut back and just stay home when they can. It is also a matter of convenience. Like Kevin O. stated, the public transportation systems can be slow and a waste of time.
Nina C. - Online
ReplyDeleteI believe the struggling of the transit system is a combination of several factors. The safety is a main on I believe. But I also think that it has a lot to do with the availability and convenience as well. There are many places that buses don't go and due to the cuts in transit, the places that they do go, you have to wait forever.
I believe that public transportation is a great way to cut down on things like pollution and traffic but I also believe that it should be a lot more efficient. Atlanta has one of the worst transit systems (as far as major cities go) in my opinion. I recently traveled across the country and used several modes of public transportation while out seeing the cities. One of the best public transit systems I have seen was in Dallas TX. It was $4 and you could ride any DART transit all day long (buses, monorail, etc). You could go anywhere in the city and for a slightly higher fare, you could commute between Dallas and Fort Worth. It was very efficient in the way that they use a lot of electric power versus fuel. There were several different lines and the longest I waited to get on a particular train was about 7 minutes. It took about 20 minutes (stops and all) to get from the northern outskirts of Dallas to the southern outskirts (via routes through the city) which is way faster than a vehicle could go.
Long story short, there are NUMEROUS transit systems that are very successful. It is just a matter of taking the time out to think about the best economical way to make it safe, convenient, and affordable for all involved. The city of Atlanta just doesn't seem to put forth the effort.
Nina C - Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Rory H
I definitely agree with you. One of the main reasons these companies are failing is because of mismanagement. Some restructuring in the business portion as well as laying out different plans for a more effective transit system could totally turn the public transportation system around.
ChastityF..Online
ReplyDeleteI actually think that there should be more efficient public transportation. There are a lot of employees that work for Marta as well as commuters that depend on this transportation line. These people will be the ones that will suffer the most. I have never used this system however, If it is taken away there is not economical way to get around in GA. A Taxi can charge you $30 one way. How are these people going to provide for their families paying for taxis daily? They are just as valuable as people who can afford cars. The unemployment rate in GA would probably double. Increase the low fare slightly to make up for the Gas issue but do not leave people stranded.
ChastityF...online in response to StephanieS
ReplyDeleteAre you worried about getting stabbed? Okay, every area has their crazy folks... Even out here in Paulding county where I live. Whether you are driving and get car jacked or you are on the bus and get stabbed there is a risk. I am sure people with out jobs, or jobs that do not pay a lot would rather leave their home get in their car and drive. This due to the demeaning pay rate in the state of georgia they can only afford to pay bills and provide food for families. Not car not just enough to stay afloat. Just because you have not been in the situation does not mean that it does not exist.
Courtney DeBord- Online
ReplyDeleteI think MARTA and other public ways of transportation is a wonderful thing that our nation has. However, I do not believe we have enough need for public transportation because we dont have the money to build a big enough transit system that would allow more quanities of people. Right now lower class individuals utilize MARTA and other transit systems more than higher class simple because they are not as safe as driving their own vehicle. Alot of people like to feel in control and to feel safe especially in the economy we are in now and with the news talking about how dangerous these transits are people are not taking the risk.
Courtney DeBord- Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Lisa L. Online
I agree with your response. There are business going under everyday in the U.S. that taxpayers won't have their money spent on to save so why are we going out of the way to save the public transits?
BREAUNA JONES ONLINE
ReplyDeleteThe public transportaion services are putting in and nothing is coming out of the end. With this everlasting budget struggle all buses will most likely end their routes. there is nothing that neither you or i can do to resolve this issue. sadly with gas prices increasing more and more people might depend on this transportation.
R. Roebuck-
ReplyDeleteI believe that shutting C-Tran down has to do with class. Clayton County is the lower class compared to Gwinnett Couty, Cobb County, and Fulton County. Clayotn County has less money and had to terminate it's transit system because of it. If there weren't enough people riding C-Tran to keep it operating, then like any business that isn't making the money to stay open, it had shut down. On another note, Marta needs to expand where it travels. If it can go to Decatur, it should also to into areas of Clayton County.
Tomeka D. online
ReplyDeleteIt is unfortunate what happened to C-Tran in Clayton County as well as all the other things that happen in that county. Clayton County has a history of different public based companies not working in their interest. I think planning and economics has a lot to do with the lack of success this county encounters at any given time. Clayton County is constantly on the news for lack of business structure, lack of knowledge within their local government, and lack of support from the Clayton County Residents. Gwinnett & Cobb Counties have a stronger local government with more assets and capital. They also have a stronger community following which is lacking in Clayton County. Actually I believe the State of Georgia should have a in place a commuter system that runs from the North of Georgia to the bottom of Georgia, near Savannah. This way all Georgians would be able to take advantage of the many historical sites as well as journeys throught out the different rural areas of this State.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTomeka D. online
ReplyDeleteIn Response to Chasity F. online
I agree with you, there should be more efficient public transportation. I believe this state is too big and specifically the Atlanta Metro Area for there to be not enough efficient transportation. There are too many people in the Metro Area for this state to always cry "we have no money in the budget" Where is the money going? Tax payers are paying taxes and money in this State is constantly missing. We need to hold our local governments responsible for these travesties within our communities. The tax payers in Clayton County should have some sort of public transportation
I have rode the CCT, C-Tran and MARTA. Honestly Marta is the most organized out of the three. The C-Tran was not as convenient as the others. It was only in certain areas of clayton county and not all through out the county. The ride from the airport to your stop was ridiculous. The CCT is more organized in the sense that you can get all around cobb county. Marta is the most convenient. Marta is the bridge between all the mass transit systems in metro Atlanta
ReplyDeleteMicah S- Online
ReplyDeleteI don't know much about C-Tran or MARTA but I would be upset if I depended on public transportation. Many people take advantage of public transportation but I think there aren't enough people doing it anymore. I definitely think this issue needs to be resolved considering people are paying taxes and services are being taken away.
Bobby W. Online
ReplyDeleteI believe that our mass transit as it is currently setup and being ran is a money pit. I think it is inevitable that they all will all shut down one by one. Privatizing the services would be a great solution to the ailing mass transit systems around Atlanta. If they were privately owned they would be ran with the purpose of making a profit and not supported by the taxpayers which would allow it to be managed as if there was an endless money supply.
in response to Martha-Jane A. It is true that marta has a bad reputation, but i dont believe that it is as bad as you think it is. Due to recent news about things that have happened on marta buses trains people are afraid. Truth be told you do meet some quite "interesting" people on the buses and trains, especially around five points but most people are not concerned with you or your valuables. They are just trying to reach their destination. I think you stand about the same chance getting robbed walking down the street as you do on marta. my advise is just to be cautious about your surroundings regardless of where you are.
ReplyDeleteMicah S-online in response to R. Roebuck
ReplyDeleteI totally agree. Clayton county doesn't have as high of a need as Fulton, Cobb and Gwinnette for public transportation. The population of people are far less in Clayton county and there is less money being circulated!
Bobby W. Online in response to BREAUNA JONES ONLINE
ReplyDeleteI agree with you in that this is going to create a repeating cycle. As gas prices continue to climb and the work force continues to be reduced there will be more and more people having to move toward mass transit to get around. Simultaneously the bus lines are being shutdown.
Abigail C.-ONLINE
ReplyDeleteI think it was the only option that the department of transportations had to cut the ctran.Although I do feel bad for those people who do not have any other means of transportation,and i am sure the unemployment rate will just rise from it because people wont have a way to get to work,but I think with the high gas prices and the how bad they were struggleing to keep the public transportation going,they didnt really have too many other choices.
Jessica C-Online
ReplyDeleteI can see how the decision to end it would be a good thing because a lot of those types of buses could be in danger or terrorism, but I can also see the other side of it too. I think we need a faster system of travel than those buses anyway. They aren't time efficient with the high-pace world we're in today. Although, there may be a lot odf people depending on that form of transportation that are having to struggle now...
Jessica C. In response to Aqueelah...
ReplyDeleteI think you make a really good point. Public transportation could be a positive support for a lot of people in the community and its important that people who can't afford to travel through other means have equal opportunities to work.
Abigail C.-online
ReplyDeleteResponse to Lindsey B.
I agree with you,I think a lot of it has to do with the safty.I think people stopp riding public transportation so much because so many were unemployed and because of all the dangers that were starting to evolve.Alot of attacks did happen on public transportation and it wasnt very safe for women and children to ride alone anymore.I remember when I was younger I would ride marta everywhere by myself,now there is absolutly no way that my daughter would ever get on marta
Cara H. Online
ReplyDeleteI believe colleges keep mass transit running. It is ment for citys where driving is just not ecomonical. I believe that they need to drop the regular bus schedual and just expect them to take a taxi. I have co workers who do it. The way i see it, those people might as well save their money for a car anyways. It can be more reliable and its always there.
Cara H. Online in response to Abigail C.-ONLINE
I agree unemployment rate will go up. We need more job opportunities though.
Youlnda J-Onlne
ReplyDeleteClayto couny may have choosen to close because it is not a high traffic area and decided to close now before they loose even more money. Cobb and Gwinnete are heavy populated counties with a number of people who do not own vehicles. These two counties decided to continue to struggle hoping the economy will turn around and more people will be needing public transportation once again.
I believe that it due to all th reasons already mentioned, the high unemployment rate, the danger in being harassed or attacked, and the government cuts. I drive 48 miles to work every week day, and I know I wouldn't feel comfortable riding a bus, even if it was cheaper than driving myself.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Cara H........
ReplyDeleteI agree, I feel that relying on a bus is not something I would want to do. It is more reliable to have your own transportation.
Tori F Online
ReplyDeleteI rode the CCT and Marta to work when my car was in the shop. I liked the experience of observing all the different people on their way to work and home. I hated the travel time. I saw all walks of life from the bum asleep on the train to the business men in their suits. I was fortunate enough to meet several old ladies from Clayton that were affected by the closure of their bus system. I was sad to hear that the only reason these ladies rode the bus was because they were scared to drive up 400 and the other interstates to Alpharetta from Clayton county. They all had cars and good jobs but were just set in their ways.
In response to Chris D.
I agree with you. The rail or bus system that the Metro Atlanta area needs is to expensive for the city and surrounding cities and counties to cover. If the system was improved more workers would ride especially now with the rise in gas prices.
Sun A. - Online
ReplyDeleteI felt bad for those who were affected by the change. For many people, the public transit system is there only means of transportation. However, due to the counties debts and budgeting, cutting out a public service with no profit being made was probably something that needed to be done.
In response to Lindsey B. -
I agree with you that it has become unsafe to ride on our public transit system. It seems I hear more and more on the news of the crimes that take place at or near the transit stations. It's scaring and detering people from using the transit systems which I believe is another reason why I'm sure Claton county has decided to go away with there transit system.
Martha-Jane A.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Sherena Hines-Rush:
I don't actually have any personal feelings toward MARTA; I don't think it is safe or unsafe. I was just telling a story about what my sister experienced and what a daily rider of it told her. If anything I thought the story was funny as I doubt anyone would actually cut my sister's finger off for her ring like the anonymous good-samaritan was implying. However, I think it's a bit idealistic to think that not a single person would be interested in another's belongings while riding any public transit system anywhere in the world.
Hannah Sherman
ReplyDeleteIt's bad for the people of Clayton County who depended on public transportation. With gas prices going up they probably weren't making enough money off of the people who used it. Marta probably has more users so they can withstand the rises gas prices. I would imagine that the demand in clayton county for public transporation isn't very high, and many people these days choose to drive themselves or carpool everywhere plus they believe driving themsevles is much safer than taking public transportation.
Olubusola.. online
ReplyDeleteIt is unfortunate these people had to endure this turnover. Public transportation is the only mean for some of them to get to point A and B to look for job. Now, it has being taken away from them. What are left for these people are only despair and more poverty.
Eric C.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Tommy H. The taxpayers should not have to back the funds for these services that are dying out. Transportation services would be one thing if people actually used them, but the majority of people are not. Why should my taxes go to something thats not needed? Just like putting sidewalkds down major streets and highways is ridiculous too. My taxes are paying for it, my taxes are also paying for some county worker to cut the sidewalk grass also. It doesn't make sense.
I believe that its a combination of all the issues discussed by other blogger. The unemployment rate, the government cutting cost, and the unsafe conditions of people riding on c-trans. I feel so bad for the people that can only get to work or other places with only c-trans. Why would tax payers be the one to pay back, I don't think that is a good idea. Everybody is affected with the recession and we don't want to be bothered with c-trans problems.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Hannah Sherman
ReplyDeleteI think you are right, many people prefer to drive themselves and not depending on either C-trans or Marta.
Awal U
ReplyDeletei would have to say the reason clayton country line closed was due to lack of money the county is making. Unlike cobb and Gwinnett which perhaps have higher taxes and higher social class.
More people in gwinnett and cobb county depend more on public transportation, because places are further apart than in clayton county.
ReplyDeleteI do feel terrible for those that were impacted, however, budget cuts have to be made. Meetings are held and the public is welcome. Most people that complain about the budget cuts either weren't contributing to the budget or didn't participate in the debates. With the impact that businesses will feel with fewer customers getting to their stores, I'm sure the decision was a necessity.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Lindsay B.
ReplyDeleteI took marta for years and I felt less safe than driving in my car, but over time, the more I did it, the safer I felt. Having said that, I agree with some other posts that public transit is just practical in some areas, and not so practical in others.
Teresia K online
ReplyDeleteI believe there was a greater reseach before the people in authority could come up with the decision to which service to cut down and which to leave in place. I feel that, the decision was concrete bacause we do not need those overheads that surely dont need to be in place. The ecomony is too harse and we work tirelessy. I feel that everyone needs to put an extra effort in whatever they do to improve on their lives.
Teresia K in response to Esther T
ReplyDeleteAm with you. Some people are working day and night trying to beat the rescession while others are just laying back beuce they know tax peyers will do it all. Everyone needs a break with this economy.