Monday, May 1, 2006

Bus Spotting In St. Louis 

Advocates for public transportation have traditionally had a difficult time convincing Missouri legislators that we need more — and more useful — public transportation.

That situation, though, may be changing. With gas prices careening toward three bucks a gallon, lone drivers of giant SUVs are wondering what items to sell on E-bay for next week’s gas money. For many commuters, the thought of sitting on Highway 40/I-64 during road reconstruction sounds much less attractive than riding a bus. One result is a renewed public interest in riding — and planning for — local trains and buses.

There are those in St. Louis who have long been advocates for public transportation, not just for economy’s sake, but as a matter of principle, pleasure, and public policy. One long such rider is Joe Frank, urbanist and urban blogger.

And, yes, that is one of Keith Belk’s photos above.

Download and Listen to this Podcast: bus.mp3