My Take on the Streetcar Vote

In observing the Charlotte City Council debate over the streetcar I was struck by the divide that exists in our city. After a restless evening I am convinced Republicans are largely responsible.

Preparing my presentation for the city council convinced me more than ever that rail transit is antiquated technology that can’t compete with much less expensive and more flexible over-the-road transportation. Rail transit was destined for the waste bin of history along with the horse and buggy until the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964. That act made it possible for municipalities get funds for highly visible “look what I did for you” rail monuments while Washington representatives are able to “bring home the bacon” for their constituents….all with our money.

I was puzzled why residents of the first and second districts are so passionate about their need for a streetcar. What convinced them streetcars spur economic development? Why do they think a 1920’s mode of transportation is needed to propel them into a modern era? The answers came when the Republicans opened their mouths.

Republicans made compelling arguments that we don’t have the money for a streetcar. Then they defended the need for light rail to be expanded throughout other districts, which I don’t think we have the money for either. I heard sighs in the audience when claims were made about how the streetcar is going to spur economic development, and then I heard Republicans talk about how the light rail has resulted in development beyond expectations.

I dispute the claims about the positive impact light rail has had. That’s because what I see and what I hear doesn’t agree with what I am told. I invite anyone to drive along the Blue-Line during rush hour and see if they are impressed with size of the crowds waiting to get on the train. Walk into any business that is still open on South Boulevard and ask how many customers got there on the light rail. How many more downtown condo projects have to go bankrupt before it dawns on the downtown developers there isn’t a big market for transit-driven high density housing in Charlotte?

Based on the experience of other municipalities I am drawn to one conclusion: in order to pay the exorbitant costs and subsidies required to build and operate rail transit, higher transit fares and reduced bus services in poorer neighborhoods are inevitable. Rail therefore has a negative impact on those that are most dependent on mass transit.

Attached is the comprehensive report I used to prepare my presentation.  It is somewhat long, but well worth the read.