OCTA Should Not Act Without Input
* Re “OCTA Seeks Help for Seniors,” July 11:
The Orange County Transportation Authority is wise to seek the cooperation of local cities and businesses--like building roads, public transportation should not be the sole responsibility of a single agency.
On the other hand, OCTA could alleviate demand by seniors (and the disabled) for Access--the expensive door-to-door paratransit service--by making bus service more attractive. This means providing a greater number of local community routes and more frequent service. On routes to popular local destinations, OCTA should run small buses into neighborhoods where residents live. Also, OCTA and cities need to work together to add benches and shelters wherever possible. Shelters not only make riding the bus more convenient but also serve as route “icons” that help seniors plan stops.
Recently, OCTA took a step in the wrong direction by approving implementation of the so-called “straight lining” of bus service. This change will make it more difficult for seniors and the disabled to ride buses, thereby putting even greater demand on Access. In light of OCTA’s recognition that it will not be able to provide adequate service, it should scrap the straight-lining concept altogether and go back to the drawing board, this time with the meaningful participation of cities and local senior groups.
In any event, seniors should be aware that if they cannot use the normal bus service because of physical or cognitive limitations, they have the right to use Access.
ANTHONY J. DRAGUN
Irvine
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