BRING BACK the DAYLINER to HRM 2012

PETITION to BRING BACK the DAYLINER Commuter rail is a viable and desirable form of transportation in many cities around the world. By signing this petition you confirm your desire to use commuter rail as a public transit option for HRM. The initial proposal is to continue the feasibility study for the section from Enfield, along the Bedford Highway, to Halifax over existing CN tracks. Commuter rail should be included in any and all HRM transportation planning discussions as it has distinct advantages over other options currently already considered: - Commuter rail is feasible. The Dayliner service is less expensive than a high-speed ferry. The tracks are ready and available, as are the Dayliner cars. - Commuter rail service links several communities, some currently without transit to the city. It would serve more communities than a high-speed ferry, which can only service Bedford. In the past, the Dayliner ran from Truro, through Fall River, Windsor Junction, Bedford to Downtown Halifax. There were also runs from Windsor, (the valley) and Sydney, Cape Breton. Your support will be used to ensure that a commuter rail option is included in all future discussions about transit planning in the HRM. The general results of the petition will be promoted through the local media and a detailed copy will be used in direct discussion with HRM Councillors and staff. You may choose to show your support for one or more of the following advantages that appeal to you: - Commuter rail is cheaper than driving. The monthly cost of owning, maintaining, and parking a vehicle used mainly for commuting is considerably higher than the cost of a public transit pass. - Commuter rail is more efficient for commuting than using the roads. Weather and road conditions, construction, or collisions can significantly impact travel time by car but are mostly negligable by rail. - Commuter rail is more convenient, less stressful than taking a car. The time spent commuting can almost entirely be productive time, rather than the frustration of navigating a vehicle in peak traffic conditions. - Commuter rail reduces the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the roads. The number of vehicles (rather than the number of commuters) defines the majority of the cost for road repairs, road widening, fuel prices, parking space, environmental impact. By offering commuter rail, HRM can be pro-active in dealing with the conflict between growth and sustainability. This will keep our city livable for our future and that of our families. - Commuter rail benefits everyone. Unlike adding more cars, busses, or ferries to the transportation options, commuter rail can reduce peak hour travel time, traffic congestion, stress, collisions, road repairs, parking prices, and carbon emissions associated with commuting. This can benefit all residents of HRM independent of their use of commuter rail. Thank you for participating in the future of your city! For more information, contact Susan Tremills: stremills@yahoo.com / 835-3589