Re: Mike Arnold critique of SMART
Author: Steamfan
Date: 12-05-2019 - 11:56
It's interesting that he published this before the Larkspur extension opened. He obviously wanted to use current numbers instead of the possible increased numbers one the extension opened. I think there will be a bigger ridership impact then what the nay-sayers want to admit. Everyone seems to try to ignore the traffic tie-ups in San Rafael and how long it takes to just go from the ferry terminal to the Novato exits on 101 during commute hours. Ferry boat riders are already avoiding the traffic on the bridge. They may jump at the chance to avoid more of the traffic. The current operation only to San Rafael was not a good test. With the new extension it will be interesting to see the difference it makes.
Having this open in the winter and right before Christmas will also impact ridership. Cold or wet weather may initially keep people from riding. Maybe this was planned so that they can figure out how to handle increased ridership. When spring rolls around ridership will probably grow as people may enjoy the walk from the terminal to the station.