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Housing Crisis, Efficient Government, Drug Abuse, Transportation and Economics, Parks and Recreation
MODERNIZED TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
Dr. Richard Florida delivered the keynote address at the Washington DC
Economic Partnership Annual Meeting and Development Showcase in October
2006. Florida, a leading social theorist and public intellectual, believes
that human creativity is the engine of economic growth." Every
human being is creative," says Florida and he argues that for
the first time in human history, our economic growth depends on the further
development of a wide spectrum of human capabilities. Florida says talent
is an economic asset and that cultivating a creative class within a community
is an important priority for economic development. Florida says four leading
socio-economic factors make cities attractive places to develop this creative
class. According to Florida those factors are: Talent, Technology,
Tolerance and Transportation. (Washington DC Economic Partnership
Newsletter 11/15/06)
CATALYST TO VITALITY
A catalyst to economic development is creating an efficient transportation system which can bring a large influx of customers to business districts. Good transportation is essential to restoring vitality to the Upper Georgia Avenue, Riggs Park and 14th street areas of Ward 4.
The electric trolley bus is a clean, quiet, and efficient environmentally friendly alternative which reduces the need for parking structures, alleiviates gridlock. When used to service business corridors underserved by existing modes of transportation, it can be a catalyst to prosperity.
ECONOMICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Because there are no rails to lay, the infrastructure investment for the trolley bus system is significantly less than that for streetcar installation. And electric trolley buses add an aesthetic flair to the urban environment.
Electric trolley buses have proven comfortable and attractive to riders
in other municipalities and are quickly gaining popularity worldwide.
With a low floor design they are more accessible to wheelchair bound riders
and seniors than traditional diesel buses. Cities which have replaced
diesel routes with Electric Trolley Buses have reported up to a 15% increase
in public transit utilization.
I will work to with District officials and Ward 4 residents to promote the implementation of this cost effective transportation solution for the business districts within Ward 4. With this vision we can carve out a unique niche to attract customers and spur job growth for local residents. We can have an efficient 21st Century transportation system serving Upper Georgia Avenue, 14th Street or the Riggs Park area. We can make the Ward 4 neighborhoods an attractive destination throughout our region. We can stimulate economic development and business usage so that we have no second class parts of the Ward.
It is critical that the Ward 4 community work together. With planning,
clear legislation and tenacity, we can realize our vision for a Ward 4
that embraces economic development while protecting seniors and offering
opportunities to moderate income residents.
For representation, vision and leadership, vote for Marlena Edwards. To learn more about Edwards’ approach to transportation and development issues and to meet her in person click this link. And on MAY 1st Vote for Marlena Edwards for Ward 4 City Council.
Paid For By Marlena Edwards 2007
Calvin Lucas, Treasurer
