Description
So many bus stops in Howard County have nothing more that a sign sitting in the grass next to the road. Many don't even have an adjacent sidewalk. I can't count the number of times I've seen elderly people or moms with kids standing in the grass, in the rain and snow waiting for the bus.
As one of the richest counties in the Country I think we can afford a generous concrete pad and preferably a shelter at every stop. Many people don't have a choice but more people would use transit if it was safe, dry and convenient.
Bob Gorman
Columbia
also asked...
Q. Select a Transit Issue
A. Bus Shelter
A. Bus Shelter
2 Comments
Howard County, MD (Tell HoCo) (Verified Official)
Acknowledged Brian Muldoon (Registered User)
Improvements to Howard County/RTA bus stops in Howard County have been underway since the County Government assumed control of the former Columbus (Columbia Association), system in 1992. The total number of bus stops in Howard County also has expanded over the decades.
Funding for bus stop improvements, as a percentage of total capital expenditures, likewise has grown. Please note however, that allocating this funding is prioritized based on stop patronage and potential ridership. Since the 1990s, the number of improved bus stops has generally increased by 50% annually.
Howard County, similar to most local and state jurisdictions, is required to ensure that all new improvements or redesign/refurbishment of existing improved locations, must adhere to ADA/PROWAG standards. Typically this worthwhile mandate does increase the cost of improvements per bus stop location. Plus there are annual maintenance costs for each improved location.
Please, if there are specific bus stop sites where you believe improvements are warranted, contact the Howard County Office of Transportation. Resident/public input has always been the chief source of improvement identification, design and installation.
Thank you for your concern.