Gov. Larry Hogan's decision to scrap funding for the Red Line fails to recognize the need for improved regional mass transit ("Hogan says no to Red Line, yes to Purple," June 25) While he said "We are not opposed to public transportation," he made no commitment to mass transit in the Baltimore area. Baltimore is the 6th most congested area in the country. Instead of funding new transit projects in the most congested parts of Maryland, he has prioritized highway projects in rural areas. We must address mass transit, ease congestion and provide Maryland residents access to job centers.
Access to efficient transportation has emerged as the single strongest factor that helps individuals escape from poverty, according to a Harvard study featured in a recent New York Times article. It is difficult to climb the ladder of economic and personal success without good transportation. The region needs better transit service so workers can get into Baltimore City from the surrounding counties and, yes, from the city into the large job centers in the counties.
If the Governor Hogan is serious about supporting public transportation, he must commit resources to improving and expanding the MTA services. His administration must find ways to connect people to work, commerce and their homes and not ignore the importance of mass transit in our region.
Del. Stephen Lafferty, Towson
The writer, a Democrat, represents District 42A in Baltimore County.