The issue of passenger train service to Syracuse that did not happen is an example of a flawed thought process regarding public transportation. Reliable and affordable public transportation is the key to economic development, and should be a priority for this community in the Finger Lakes. It is imperative that an immediate discussion regarding local passenger train service is revisited by local, state, and federal agencies and also with the Finger Lakes Railway.

Commuting to work by automobile has become a way of life for residents of smaller cities such as Auburn often due to a lack of appropriate employment opportunities. Increasing traffic, CO2 emissions, accidents, asthma, the increase of gasoline prices and decreasing employment are circumstances that will not improve or go away. A commitment to invest public and private funds in sustainable public transportation is a critical issue at this time and place. Economic development from construction of a passenger train system to the transport of people in the Finger Lakes will create a new industry for entertainment, tourism, and commerce.

Comparing passenger train service to a daily 70 mile round trip commute by car, including its cost and fuel, the passenger train is clearly the winner. Passenger train commuting allows activities such as reading a newspaper or book, or even taking a snooze and allows one to be refreshed upon reaching their destination. In contrast, driving in bad weather and concerns about drivers who don#'t pay attention to items such as stop signs, red lights, double lines and the speed limits especially in this city, create stress.

I urge my fellow citizens to think about public transportation differently and to understand the opportunities, and to contact their local and regional representatives and encourage them to revisit this important topic.

Jean Siracusa

Auburn