In a shift away from highways-first transportation policies, top elected officials in the Baltimore region have decided to direct about $340 million in previously unallocated revenue over 20 years entirely toward mass transit projects......In a vote last week, the board determined that all of the added funds should go to short- and long-term transit projects, a shift in priorities that officials said reflects concerns about air pollution, gasoline prices and dependence on fossil fuels.
"People are really interested in taking mass transit," said Howard County Executive Ken Ulman, the board's chairman. Jack Cahalan, a spokesman for the state Transportation Department, said its representatives on the board supported the move at the direction of O'Malley and Secretary John D. Porcari.
Although the story didn't go into too much detail on if this will help any one thing in particular, speculation includes a motion proving to the world that the myth of a subway line within Baltimore exists and we might actually be expanding it, MARC improvements, more park-n-ride lots, and something involving Columbia (screw Columbia).
Talk also included some long-range plans, which to my bitter-skeptic within means, our local representatives will pocket whatever isn't spent in the first year, oh and to pay for our fair-mayor's defensive council.
Though, in all seriousness, this is great news! If the city is able to focus and get the ball rolling, this could be a great improvement to the city and its reputation. To all of the city citizens out there, don't let your representatives screw this one up! Take up arms and show your support! A public comment forum has been setup at the Baltimore Metropolitian Council in Canton of August 12 (3-6pm). Go if you can!!!
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