Forum allows PAT critics to voice opinions

Port Authority of Allegheny County riders can breathe a sigh of relief. The 10 percent cut… Port Authority of Allegheny County riders can breathe a sigh of relief. The 10 percent cut of bus routes expected this month was halted.

The state government absorbed the sum that Allegheny County was supposed to match.

However, PAT is still not safe from future cuts.

The Allegheny County Transit Council is a volunteer organization that works with PAT to help with its riders’ issues. Riders attended a meeting yesterday held by ACTC at the YMCA downtown.

“I sort of think that there is a stigma attached to riding the bus. People think that only people in the lower class ride the bus. The Port Authority doesn’t address that issue well,” Lorraine Hlatky, secretary for ACTC, said.

Riders came to the meeting armed and ready with ideas and complaints.

“Keep the buses cleaner and tell people to stop using profanity. Also, the bus drivers should be more assertive,” PAT rider Gloria M. Ford said.

Other riders complained about graffiti, overcrowding, route changes and passengers who are inconsiderate to handicapped riders.

Two PAT employees came to the meeting and listened to riders’ stories and ideas, as well as answered questions.

“We look at specific routes rather than making comprehensive assessments. We listen to the various demographics of communities and find out where they want to go,” David Wohlwill, lead transit planner for PAT, said.

Wohlwill said the 15 percent cut in the frequency of bus runs implemented last June affected the Port Authority significantly, but it will take time to realize the financial effects.

Riders also exchanged thoughts about PAT’s strategies for remedying its monetary problems.

Making buses more accessible to areas such as Monroeville and Mount were at the forefront of discussion.

In addition to increasing patronage, possible funds will be raised if the state Senate passes the transportation bill that would call for a 10 percent poured alcohol tax and a $2 tax per day for rental cars.

“It’s not quite final. If it goes through – something will go through – we’ll be safe for a couple of years,” said John Smith, a spokesman for Tomorrow’s Transit.

Allegheny County is obligated to pay $1 for every $3 that the state government contributes.

ACTC representatives emphasized how non-riders benefit from public transportation. By utilizing PAT, people reduce pollution, save money and help alleviate road and parking lot congestion.

“If there were no public transportation, there would be a greater demand for parking spaces, creating gridlock and economic decline in business,” John Weinhold, treasurer of ACTC, said.

Oakland residents understand the frustration of finding parking spaces. Approximately 240 short-term parking spots were lost two years ago with the construction of Schenley Plaza. The parking situation would be worse if public transportation was reduced or eliminated.

ACTC works as the people’s liaison to PAT to prevent this from happening.

“We work with them. We don’t work for them, so we are not under their thumb. However, they decide whether or not to take our advice,” Barbara Simpson, president of ACTC, said.