Hustle and bustle, it’s how we function. And, in order to do so — to live and work and socialize or go to school in all parts of the Valley, we must transport ourselves. As scientists are currently preoccupied developing cell phone technology that allows us to send emails or order pizza from the moon by commanding an imaginary friend (Siri), teleportation technology won’t be making its debut any time soon.
Gas prices are always on the rise — a gallon currently runs for around $4. That’s more than milk and also gives credence to the argument for the necessity and practicality of a functional public transportation system. In the current state of economic vulnerability, filling up the tank becomes much more of a burden on many Valley families.
Without the light rail or the Flash and Orbit routes, making our way to class would prove to be much more difficult. The same could be said for community members who rely on public transportation to get to work. It’s just necessary.
The citywide bus strike has gone on for five days and we’re feeling the impact not just on campus, but all over the Valley. As a result, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton stepped in during negotiations Wednesday between Veolia Transportation and Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1433, the bus drivers’ union.
Phoenix is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country and people need to get around. The concrete grid spreads across the desert in a series of suburbs, towns and strip malls connected only by congested freeways and surface roads that can be nearly impossible to navigate during rush hour. Even Cleveland has the Rapid Transit Authority, and well, it's Cleveland.
The bus strike has shown just how valuable public transportation has become in the Valley. Phoenix was one of the last large metropolitan cities without some form of rail system and the Metro Light Rail changed it all on its way to become part of the Valley’s culture. It is taken to games, classes and used on nights of drinking. It was worth every penny.
Orbit busses have had their ups and downs in Tempe, but students have been left stranded during the strike. Their routes are often under the radar, but the strike has made it clear how many people use them everyday, students and community members alike.
The strike will be resolved and Valley residents will return to their preferred methods of transportation, but the perception of public transportation has drastically changed. It’s no longer the lesser alternative, but a welcome ride.
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