I Can't Drive...

...55!

I read a couple of our local newspaper's reader responses to the outrageous prices at the gas pump, who suggest that our government reinstate a 55mph speed limit on our highways to increase fuel efficiency. Do we really want more government control over our lives? I am all for these people choosing to drive 55mph; they have the freedom to do so and are not forced to drive any faster.

Or, they can sell their gas guzzlers and buy more fuel-efficient vehicles. Bicycle. Walk. Carpool. Take public transportation. Drive smarter and drive less. We are all in this together, feeling the pinch in the pocketbook, but given the choice of being a slave to gas prices or slave to The Man, I am thankful for my freedom to choose.

Light Rail

Last week I commuted via light rail (our electrified local mass transit system on rails). That's because my favorite commuter motorcycle puked its rear end upon getting home from a Halloween shindig. It's just as well, since I eventually will have gotten around to alternative transportation... and best I learn the ropes before it begins raining cats and dogs.

I drive my truck about 4 miles to the most convenient light rail station, park it, validate a ticket and board the train for a 5-6 mile ride to my downtown office. Fortunately, the train stops at my building (and the one departing for home stops about a 1/2 block away).

It's not so bad.

The problem for many people is that the light rail routes are not necessarily as convenient as I have found them to be (altho' it'd be nice if I didn't have to drive 4 miles to the station... but I'm nitpicking). Some still have to walk several blocks to their offices. There's also the problem with vehicle break-ins at some of the parking locations. Lastly, you get to share your commute with others (many with whom you'd rather not).

With everyone jumping on the GREEN bandwagon (global warming, hybrid vehicles, Al Gore), maybe the powers-that-be could do something to better promote mass transit, such as developing better routes and providing enhanced security. As for putting up with fellow commuters' profanity, lack of personal hygiene and what-not... I'm not sure there is a solution.

Once my Cruiser's rear end is all fixed up and weather permitting, I will be back to two-wheeling it to work (I park free about a block away). I love riding.