I-way Blog

A Blog by Vanessa Fry, CTAI District 4 Mobility Manager

This year's May in Motion was great!  Whenever possible, I walked, biked, carpooled and road public transportation.  I met a ton of people who love using these methods to get from point A to point B.  Everyone has their own reasons why they choose a particular form of transportation.  Some of the reasons I heard about this month include convenience, saving money, health benefits, and protecting the environment.  Below I highlight some of what I heard.  The links provided will take you to some of the videos I took of people sharing their experiences.

Whether it's the bus or bike paths many people rely on public transportation and good bike and pedestrian infrastructure for access to all sorts of services.  In addition, according to FTA, good bicycle and pedestrian access are critical components of the success of the transit system.   The Hunger Coalition in the Wood River Valley purposely designed their food drop off points in locations with access to the bike path and transit stops. 

According to the Community Transportation Association, "More than one-third of America's population lives outside of urbanized areas. Nearly 40 percent of the country's transit dependent population -- primarily senior citizens, persons with disabilities and low-income individuals -- resides in rural areas. Yet in many of these communities, public and community transportation are limited or absent."  The chair of the Mini-Cassia Transportation Committee, perhaps the most rural area in District 4, supports the need integrate public transportation planning into community planning.  It is clear, as we plan for our future we must integrate a variety of transportation ideas and options.

As the Mayor of Sun Valley pointed out to me, an investment in public transportation benefits the entire community.  It helps residents and visitors save money. It reduces pollution and congestion.  It also allows people to have great access to work, shopping and recreation.  I would love to hear what community doing to support mobility options.

I had a great time in May and have continued to bike, walk, carpool and ride the bus as much as possible - I challenge you to do the same! 

If you'd like to see some of the other videos I took last month (maybe one is of you!) check out CTAI's YouTube site: http://www.youtube.com/user/ctaidaho  Do you have a great story to tell about getting around?  You can post it on CTAI's facebook page.