Building up public transit is an investment in our future

Broward County is the second most populous county in Florida, with over 1.9 million residents. Despite its size and population density, public transportation in the county remains underdeveloped and inefficient. The current system is plagued by long wait times, limited routes and high fares, making it difficult for many residents to get around.

However, there is a solution that could address these issues and make public transit a viable option for more people: investing in rapid, accessible and free public transit in Broward County.

First and foremost, making public transit free would remove the financial barrier that prevents many people from using it. Studies have shown that free public transit systems increase ridership, reduce traffic congestion, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, offering 24/7 public transit service would make it easier for people who work late shifts, attend events or simply have to travel late at night to access public transit.

Another important investment that Broward County needs is a metro or monorail system. While buses are an important part of public transit, they are often slowed down by traffic and can’t compete with the speed and efficiency of a rail system. A metro rail system would provide a fast, reliable and comfortable way for people to get around the county, connecting them to major job centers, entertainment venues and tourist destinations. We could very well place this type of system on I-595, and on many artery roads: Broward Boulevard, Sunrise Boulevard, State Road 441, etc. While Tri-Rail and Brightline have proven to be innovative projects, they are barely solutions. We need rail access to the western region of this county.

Investing in more routes is also essential for a successful public transit system. The current public transit system in Broward County is limited, with only a few routes that don’t cover the entire county. By increasing the number of routes, making them more frequent, and expanding service to underserved areas, we can provide access to public transit to more residents, including those who rely on it as their primary mode of transportation.

Some may argue that investing in public transit is too expensive, but the economic benefits of an efficient public transit system cannot be ignored. By reducing traffic congestion, we can save time and money for businesses and individuals who rely on our roads to get to work, school and appointments. Additionally, investing in public transit will create jobs in the construction and maintenance of new infrastructure, spurring economic growth and development in our community.

In conclusion, investing in rapid, accessible, and free public transit in Broward County is an investment in our community’s future. By making public transit more accessible and efficient, we can increase ridership, reduce traffic congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and create jobs. It’s time for Broward County to prioritize public transit and create a system that works for everyone.

By Elijah Manley