Editor:
Dear Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, relevant decision-makers and concerned community members: This letter is in support of using Measure O funding for transit and related services, per the measure language/agreement (Mailbox, Feb. 27).
There is the unfortunate misconception by some that a robust transit system would not be useful for Humboldt County. This is false. Transit is as useful as it is available. I and many others voted yes on Measure O so that additional funds would be allocated for transit. That was the agreement in the measure.
I and other transit supporters are in favor of using funds for roads, there is no problem there, our roads need maintenance. That said, transit is equally as important. A growing number of youth, students, people with disabilities, non-drivers, working people, seniors, etc., are using transit and that is because our local transit system is improving. There are many people who have never driven and/or do not drive. This occurs for many different and relevant reasons.
Therefore, many people either need or prefer to take transit and the numbers are growing! So, decision-makers, please be advised that transit funding is essential to a vibrant local system and for connectivity with regional systems. Funding our transit system as promised in Measure O language will benefit a growing number of people. Thanks for keeping your promise to the people who voted for Measure O for the purpose of increased transit funding.
Peggy Martinez, Arcata
This article appears in There’s a Fish Market Splashing into Eureka.