To the editor:

In our crowded, polluted world, mass transportation is economically and environmentally essential. Millions of private gasoline-burning automobiles produce dangerous air pollution. Gas, at about $3 a gallon, impoverishes auto drivers. Overcrowded highways increase accidents.

The cities in Australia and New Zealand have excellent mass transit systems, which are considered to be public necessities. Since “down under” the privately owned automobile is considered to be a luxury item, it is heavily taxed. The benefits are both economic and environmental.

The question is whether the Lawrence City Commission has the political courage and the wisdom to implement a unified, efficient and appealing mass transit system. The Kansas University and the city bus systems should be combined.

In addition to setting a good example themselves by riding city buses, the city commissioners could offer city employees free bus transportation to and from work. Bus riding bargains should be advertised. Bus routes and schedules should be regularly published in the newspaper.

Mass transit should be classified along with police and fire protection, public education and street maintenance as a public service. As such, it should not be expected to “pay its own way.” Once well established, mass transportation might possibly “pay its own way.”

John A. Bond,
Lawrence