MAILBAG: Hiked fares won’t help the Beeline

I wonder if the folks deciding how to operate Glendale’s local Beeline bus ever actually ride the bus (“Beeline costs may transfer,” Oct. 1).

I understand the need to make changes to the bus system. I have lived in Glendale for more than 13 years. I am a daily rider of the Beeline and Metro buses. The proposed changes make me wonder whether my family and I would continue to ride the Beeline.

Increasing the cost from 25 cents to 50 cents is not a huge deal, but a larger increase would make it easier for us to choose the Metro instead. The Metro buses run many of the same routes as the Beeline. Given the cost difference, my children and I frequently wait for a Beeline bus, even after two Metro buses going the same direction pass by us.

I know that most of the Beeline buses are not full for much of the day. With the exception of the buses whose routes take them by the local high schools and Glendale Community College, I am often one of two to six riders on a bus during the day. Instead of looking at fare increases to boost revenue, what about increasing the riders?

Many locals do not know about the Beeline, or how convenient it is to ride the bus. I suggest publicizing the routes and schedules, encouraging office workers to jump on the Beeline at lunch and for to opt for the bus to the Glendale Galleria or Americana at Brand instead of driving, especially during the holiday shopping season. More riders would mean increased revenue and would also get our community out on the streets, walking and visiting local merchants.

Being a person of action, not just with an opinion, I will commit to hosting a weekly lunch at a local Glendale restaurant. I’ve already posted and scheduled the first one. Join me today at El Morfi on North Brand Boulevard (more information at www.meetup.com/Glendale-Healthy-Streets).

I will provide information on how to use the Beeline bus and how to get there from various points in Glendale. Hopefully this will encourage more folks to get out during the day and ride the bus, as well as bring awareness to this wonderful service we have here in Glendale.

Please don’t raise the fares — get on a bus and support them!

CINDY COAN

Glendale

Communicate with your water board

Do you remember the old English nursery rhyme that was a childhood favorite?

“Mary, Mary quite contrary, How does your garden grow? With silver bells and cockleshells, And pretty maids all in a row?”