The
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SAN DIEGO,CA EDDM RETAIL
Serving Clairemont, Bay Park, Linda Vista & Kearny Mesa
LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER ECRWSS
Clairemont Times V7.E8
News of the Neighborhoods
8
AUGUST 2017
17
Updates on the Ongoing Mid-Coast Trolley Construction
19
Potential Reduction of MTS Bus Service in Clairemont & Surrounding Neighborhoods MTS Transit Optimization Plan (TOP) and other Transit News by Lynn Parrish
by Chris O’Connell
Construction is happening at both ends of the line South to North. This is very evident if you travel up in the UTC, UCSD area. To the south over the San Diego River a new bridge is being built which can be seen travelling along Friars Rd. In addition, new bridge construction over Balboa Ave near Santa Fe St is currently underway. Back in January twelve eucalyptus trees and one palm tree were
removed along Morena Blvd near Baker St. I was told by John Haggerty, Division Director of Rail Implementation, SANDAG that for every tree taken down there is a 1to1 replacement and for the mature trees such as the eucalyptus there is a 2 to 1 replacement. Unfortunately because of space issues along the tracks plus over potential overhang trees will not be replaced in that area. However, SEE Trolley Construction, page 4
MTS conducts a system wide planning effort every 10 years in an attempt to balance service. This process is known as the Transit Optimization Plan (TOP). The goal is to leverage existing resources while reversing the trend of decreasing ridership. Simultaneously with the TOP, SANDAG is conducting a Fare Study, which is the precursor to fare increases. In addition, the MTS Access (Para transit aka ADA transit) with a large increase in demand has implemented stringent administrative changes to the eligibility process deterring potential riders from completing their applications. MTS Access is much more costly to operate than Fixed route. The TOP is focused on Fixed Route buses and the trolley was not part of the TOP. All of these measures described above are another way that is justifying a reduction of service to Clairemont and other communities. After attending the MTS Board meeting and TOP Public Hearing July 20 and hearing 49 plus testimonies from across the MTS service area about the impact in their neighborhoods, I have summarized the proposed changes for the
primary routes. Perhaps transit riders and parents who are depending on these Bus Routes for transportation to school, work, shopping, medical appointments and/or our beautiful beaches will appreciate these notes and if not already submitted comments, submit them. Summary of Proposed Changes (TOP) to Fixed Route Bus Routes #27 Streamline route to Kearny Villa Rd. instead of Convoy St. between Balboa Ave. and Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #41 No changes proposed. This route originates in Fashion Valley Transit Center and generally runs along Genesee through Clairemont and ends at Gilman/Myers on the UCSD campus. Weekday service 15-min frequency until PM, weekend 30-min frequency. #44 No longer serve Clairemont. Replacement of existing service from Clairemont Square east along Clairemont Mesa Blvd. with proposed 105. Proposed 44 will originate in SEE MTS Bus Service, page 6