Huber on Mass Transit: ‘The Work Begins Now’

(Image Courtesy of IndyGo)

Indy Chamber Chief Executive Officer Michael Huber says the City-County Council approving a referendum on expanded mass transit opens the door for the city to be more economically competitive. He says the proposed expansion would triple the number of people and double the number of jobs within a five-minute walk of a frequent bus route, putting Indianapolis on par with cities like Nashville, Denver and Columbus, Ohio. Opponents say the project would cost taxpayers more than supporters are estimating.

Last night’s 18-6 vote on Proposal 145 clears the way for a public referendum November 8 on a 0.25 percent income tax increase. Plans include three rapid transit lines, additional hours of operation and more frequent service.

Huber says the tax increase averages out to less than $10 per month for the average Marion County family. However, he believes the "long overdue" investment will pay dividends beyond getting people to work. He says the expanded service could also lead to more housing options, additional amenities and corridor improvements.

In a statement from the chamber, Huber also says there is a talent attraction and retention component to the plan. He says younger workers are "moving to more walkable areas served by transit," adding that rapid transit lines "will jump-start redevelopment and rebuild the tax base in many urban neighborhoods."

You can see the plan by clicking here.