I recently attended a presentation by Lima & Associates, a Phoenix based transportation planning firm, regarding future traffic scenarios for our region.  I was stunned, but not surprised.  The 28 page report, complete with charts and graphs, illustrated the woeful inadequacy of our roadways.  The most disturbing news however, was the undeniable assessment that there simply is not enough funding available to construct and/or widen key corridors to sufficiently bring our roadway capacity back down to even "moderately congested" levels.

In other words, there is no feasible way to adequately relieve the "highly congested" traffic we're already experiencing-- and the situation is only going to get worse.  That's an upsetting realization for most of us.  Even more so for those who moved here in order to escape the congestion and stress of their departed communities.

So, if building bigger and better roads isn't the answer, then what is? 

A viable public transit system is an important option, and certainly one that warrants serious consideration.  The Lima & Associates report showed our roadway demand was already 30% over capacity, and recommended a 1% reduction in vehicular trips to address this congestion.  Only 1%?  What about all those who would be willing to get on a bike or walk?

We live in an ideal climate for walking and biking-- that's why people move here!  Sadly, Prescott is considered by many to be unsafe for those who would dare.  Narrow roads and a shortage of bike lanes have made it too risky for most of us to ride our bikes to school or to work.

The CYMPO (Central Yavapai Metropolitan Planning Organization), a joint governmental body created in part to solicit community feedback regarding transportation issues has prepared a Public Transit Needs Survey.  In order to accommodate an overwhelming response, the survey deadline has been extended to September 28th.  If you haven't already, please take a few moments to let our public officials know how many more of us would be willing to walk or ride a bike. 

Another excellent resource is PAT (Prescott Alternative Transportation). PAT is actively working with local and regional agencies to provide support and choice for non-vehicular transit modes.  To get involved,
go to http://prescottbikeped.org/getinvolved.htm

Our quality of life is at stake.