Date: Thu, 13 Jun 2002 21:43:20 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Keith F. Lynch" <kfl at keithlynch.net>
To: WSFAlist at keithlynch.net
Subject: [WSFA] Re: But Will They Run On Time ?

"Michael Walsh" <MJW at mail.press.jhu.edu> wrote:
> This one's for Keith "I don't need no stinkin' car" Lynch:
> http://www.sunspot.net/news/traffic/bal-md.trains13jun13.story?coll=bal%2=Dlocal%2Dheadlines

Thanks.  Please note, however, that I am far from the only WSFA member
who has no car.  Fortunately, both our regular meeting locations are
Metro accessible.  At least to those who don't mind a little walking.
And are even closer to various bus routes.

Similarly with the Fabulous Bungalow.  Speaking of which, has anyone
heard if they're having another Fourth of July picnic to which WSFA is
invited?  Kathi Overton was at First Friday, but didn't say anything
about it.  I checked their web site, but it hasn't been updated in
three years (!).

> (As you scroll down you'll see a news piece about wheels falling off
> of MTA busses . . .)

It contains this gem:

  Transportation Secretary John D. Porcari last night ordered every bus
  reinspected before being allowed back on the streets.
  "If there's any question between having enough buses to make the usual
  runs tomorrow and safety, we'll do with less buses," he said.

At least they're honest about it.  With Metrobus, if a bus is broken,
or someone suspects it might have a flaw, or if a driver is sick, or
on vacation, the bus simply doesn't run, with no warning, explanation,
or apology.  No bus at 8 am?  No problem.  Keep standing there, and
one should be along at 9 am.  If not, probably at 10.  Meanwhile,
several "NOT IN SERVICE" buses (my personal record is 14) will go by
just to show you that the bus system is still running.

There's a reason I almost never ride buses.  I would gladly ride them
if they were half as reliable and frequent as the trains.
--
Keith F. Lynch - kfl at keithlynch.net - http://keithlynch.net/
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