Penny tax for transit proposed to support growth and accessibility in Greenville

Penny tax for transit would help Greenville grow, help riders

Riders of all abilities would benefit from fully funded Greenlink bus system

Last fall, I enjoyed riding Greenlink, our public transit system, to the Saturday market. Traveling on the bus line was excellent! The automated ticket punch had auditory feedback letting riders know their bus passes were scanned successfully.

As a blind person, I need to have access to transportation. Public transportation, such as Greenlink, plays a huge role in my life. I was recently hired as an Equip leader for Able South Carolina. In my position, I travel around Greenville to promote programs and work with high school students with disabilities. I rely on public transportation.

Greenville residents with and without disabilities must have reliable and accessible transportation, or they can’t be independent. Greenlink lacks funding. A simple solution would be a transportation penny tax.

Benefits of a fully funded Greenlink

If fully funded, Greenlink could extend its daily service hours, add Sunday service, increase bus stop frequency to 30 minutes, and add at least 15 new bus routes. This is an exciting opportunity to grow our city by introducing more commerce and development.

A fully funded transit system has the potential to generate new and increased growth in our local economy. This translates into more job opportunities and enhanced community access. It presents a significant opportunity to impact our community, and we need the Council’s support to make it a reality.

Enhancing community access and economic growth

By fully funding Greenlink, we will be providing transportation options that benefit residents of all abilities. Reliable and accessible public transportation is crucial for individuals with disabilities to be able to work, attend school, and participate in community activities.

Moreover, a well-funded transit system can attract more businesses and developers to the area. The availability of reliable public transportation is a deciding factor for many companies when choosing a location for their offices or stores. By investing in Greenlink, we can encourage economic growth and create more job opportunities for our residents.

Improving quality of life

A fully funded Greenlink would not only benefit individuals with disabilities and the local economy but also enhance the overall quality of life in Greenville. Increased bus stop frequency and extended service hours would make it easier for residents to travel around the city, reducing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transportation options.

Additionally, adding Sunday service would ensure that individuals who rely on public transportation can access essential services and activities on weekends. This is particularly important for low-income individuals who may not have access to private vehicles.

Supporting a sustainable future

With concerns about climate change and air pollution, investing in public transportation is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. A fully funded Greenlink would encourage more residents to choose public transportation over private vehicles, reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in our city.

Furthermore, a well-connected and accessible public transit system can promote walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods, encouraging active transportation and reducing reliance on cars.

Building a stronger community

Transportation is a vital component of a strong and thriving community. A fully funded Greenlink will not only provide transportation options but also foster a sense of community. Public transportation allows residents to interact and connect with one another, creating a more inclusive and connected city.

By investing in Greenlink, we are investing in our community’s future. We are creating opportunities for individuals to thrive, businesses to grow, and the city to prosper.

Conclusion

A fully funded Greenlink bus system is essential for the growth and success of Greenville. It will provide reliable and accessible transportation options for all residents, encourage economic development, enhance the overall quality of life, and support a sustainable future. It’s time for our city council to prioritize fully funding Greenlink through a transportation penny tax, and in doing so, invest in the future of Greenville.