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OK, so it seems like instead of careful interjurisdictional planning, you would prefer to imagine express trains and local trains on a two-track system operating with minimal headway or assume a population with job locations and interests that don’t require Metro use or don’t require peak-hour Metro use, or ignore the fact that some residents might be in families with jobs in very different locations, or some individuals have job location changes after they choose a residence, and a myriad of other reasons when your type of crystal-ball gazing might not give you an accurate projection of the impact of various proposals.

I prefer to base interjurisdictional planning on reasonable estimates of future capacity and models of economic decision-making that reflect the complex decisions facing our future residents. We cannot simply plan based on slogans and the assumption that Metro can handle any and all the transportation needs of as many residents, customers and employees as we choose to place near Metro stations. The sky is the limit. Interjurisdictional planning requires determining how much capacity there is and where the development should go.

And David C, which Metro system do you ride where those who are capable of standing do, and allow those who might find it more difficult to sit.

kk: You seem to be missing the point. Waiting for the next train at District stations isn’t an option if all the trains have reached full capacity, both sitting and standing room, outside the Beltway, perhaps even at Shady Grove. And by the way, District residents already are frequently waiting for the next train.

nathaniel: Perhaps you have seen some people over 70 standing on the Metro, and I have seen pregnant women, people with difficulty walking and elderly citizens sitting on the platform letting several trains go by until they can be certain that they will get a seat when they board. When you read your newspaper while standing on the lurching Metrorail train, are you also carrying a purse and a briefcase? Perhaps, when you grow up, you will develop some more understanding and sympathy for others.

Signing off, Tom

by Tom on Oct 21, 2008 10:46 am • link • report