That’s true, and I’d even argue what we have now is an upgrade since the BCC ran at an awkward 17min frequency. What I thought I implied better was that the bus service changes were also bad optics. It fed into the narrative that Durham’s leaders are heavily investing in economically booming areas at the cost of neighborhoods like East Durham and Hayti, even if that’s only partially true.
…and if the past few years of national politics taught us anything, it’s that facts and truth can get thrown out the window when blazing emotions are front and center. I don’t know about y’all, but that makes it obvious to me where the animosity against commuter rail is coming from. I think these people feel (not necessarily think) that their opposition of GTCR is a part of a proxy war against the powers-that-be. You need more than just facts to bring them over to your side.
I’m curious about fare-free buses, too, though it seemed controversial even in our community. Raleigh hasn’t brought back fares, either. All major transit agencies in our region -not just for Raleigh and Durham, but GoCary and GoTriangle too- have suspended their fares until at least June 30, 2022.