HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-07-21-TAC-min Transportation Advisory Committee
Date: July 21,2009
Members Present: Sara Arnold, Sally Castleman, Elaine Dratch, Hank Manz, Danny
Moraff, Francine Stieglitz,
Staff: Gail Wagner,
Planning Board Liaison: Richard Canale
MBTA Public Hearings to Increase Fares or Reduce Services
➢ Lexington stands to lose its two MBTA routes if fares aren't increased.
➢ Danny feels the MBTA could fully fund services this year with recently added
funds from the new State sales tax and feels it is fearmongering.
➢ Without an increased gas tax, Richard commented that MBTA long-term debt
would remain a budgetary factor.
➢ Since outlying areas including Lexington are in greatest jeopardy, Gail asked if it
is a strategic move to push outlying communities to form new regional services.
➢ Gail will verify RIDE numbers for Lexington and inquire if loss of service will
disqualify Lexington for MBTA paratransit service.
➢ Sara feels TAC needs to take a stand. Top priority to oppose service reductions.
Alternatives to fare increases should be highlighted, such as gas tax, MBTA
reform, and increased State sales tax.
➢ TAC supports the MBTA suggestion to distribute fare and service cutback
information to Lexpress riders.
➢ TAC will submit a letter for the Selectmen's consideration to be sent to the
MBTA.
➢ Hank will form a town delegation to attend one of the public hearings to read a
statement. Three finance committee members who ride the MBTA are likely
candidates.
TDM
➢ In 2003, TAC's efforts to reduce Lexpress dependency on tax levy funding were
negated by a reversal of a town legal ruling.
➢ TDM negotiators are now refuting the appropriateness of TDM funds for
Lexpress.
➢ Hank reported at the recent Selectmen's goal setting session a COA report stated
Lexpress serves no seniors. Hank asked that it be corrected since seniors do ride
Lexpress (9,265 in FY09). Economic Development Committee reported on a town
transportation study.
➢ TAC's long-term experience in town transportation is not being utilized. Past
efforts to engage the COA in transportation discussions have not been welcomed.
It appears each group is advocating for their own transportation agenda.
➢ Sara pointed out that in recent years TAC has focused on funding to maintain
Lexpress, perhaps at the expense of a broader town agenda.
➢ Danny commented that isolating commercial development on the outskirts of
Lexington goes contrary to current smart growth concepts.
➢ Hank suggested an informal discussion with the town manager and Jeanne may
prove helpful.
TAC Charter
Updates submitted by Bill Levison with TAC edits were approved.
Lexington Technology Park Development
➢ Planning Board is holding 3 meetings to review the proposed expansion of the
Lexington Technology Park
➢ A project overview will be presented on July 29. Danny hopes to attend.
➢ An August meeting will focus on transportation and traffic.
Battle Road Scenic Byway
➢ Richard reported federal transit funds were available and ideas welcomed.
➢ Corridor includes: Arlington, Lexington Lincoln, Concord.
EOT Google Transit
➢ Executive Office of Transportation will link Lexpress Google transit to its
developer page. Danny via Gail notified the Town Manager's office and no
objections were raised.
Recorder: Gail Wagner