Public Transportation

In Los Angeles, we rely on our car as much as we rely on, say, food. Public transportation is so inconvenient that most people rely on their own cars to get from Point A to Point B. Major cities are widely dispersed, making the travel between them very time-consuming and frustrating for the drivers. Why hasn't Los Angeles invested in a highly efficient and effective public transportion system such as a rail network (subway systems are unattractive due to the frequent occurence of earthquakes)?

Yes, we already have a large bus system in place, but it still does not service sufficient areas for it to be convenient for most commuters. Major bus lines such as the Metro and Big Blue Bus are, to some extent, convenient and reliable, but only if you're traveling within neighboring cities. Even so, many people find it a hassle to obtain change for bus fares because most busses only accept exact change. People are not willing to use the change machine at the laundromat or purchase something at a store just to get change for a bus ride. This problem deters many from utilizing bus services.

A possible solution would be to introduce rechargeable stored value smart cards-- a pocket-sized card with embedded integrated circuits which can process data and transfer electronic payments in online or offline systems-- such as the Octopus Card, which is widely used in Hong Kong. Such cards are be simple to use, convenient and eliminate the need to carry change just for public transportation. The card can also be used for train fares, payments at convenience stores and certain restaurant establishments. Perhaps it can also be used to pay taxi fares. The investment in card-reading machines would be well-worth the ease and convenience provided to commuters. It would encourage utilization of public transportation and speed up the transaction process.

Investment in public transportation systems ought to be a public priority. It would ease traffic, improve air quality and-- most importantly-- provide a means of reliable and affordable transportation for thousands of residents. With enough spending, bigger budgets, and a visionary leader, Los Angeles can have a network of public transportation that is effective, efficient and caters to the needs of its residents.