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Resolution #2006-01:

More study needed
before Pike transit decision

Whereas, the Columbia Pike corridor is an important part of the Arlington community, and has been the focus of ongoing planning for revitalized residential and commercial activity; and

Whereas, Columbia Pike is a major transportation thoroughfare for motorists and transit users alike, with the most heavily bus route in Virginia; and

Whereas, Arlington County and the Washington Area Metropolitan Transportation Authority (WMATA) conducted a study of proposals of ways to improve transit along Columbia Pike, including enhancements to existing bus service, bus rapid transit (BRT) service, full streetcar service, and a "modified streetcar" line (shorter than the full streetcar proposal, supplemented by bus service), which was identified as the "preferred alternative"; and

Whereas, the study estimated that the modified streetcar service would cost $110-$120 million to construct (in current dollars) and an additional $4-5 million per year in operational costs; and

Whereas, the report indicated that the trolley proposals would result in slightly faster transit service, but those speed improvements are largely attributable to factors other than the trolley system (such as fewer stops, off-vehicle fare collection and priority control over traffic lights); and

Whereas, the study did not fully take into account all of the utility costs related to streetcar service, such as relocating public and private utility lines currently under the roadway, and that costs are likely to escalate before construction starts; and

Whereas, over 80 percent of the modified streetcar alternative is in Arlington County, but most of the projected service improvements (reduced travel time for long-distance commutes) would benefit riders from Fairfax County, with fewer stops available for use by Arlington County riders; and

Whereas, the Federal Transit Administration advised that the "modified streetcar" project would probably not qualify for federal funding, due to limited improvements in travel time and the possibility to achieve similar benefits at reduced cost by enhacements to existing bus service; and

Whereas, if the streetcar project were funded using County bond funds, that would effectively add at least 2-3 cents to the real estate tax rate paid by all property owners in Arlington (and quite possibly more if construction costs escalate); and

Whereas, the County Bord should fully consider the interests of all who use Columbia Pike (including transit riders, motorists, and pedestrians), as well as residents and businesses in the Pike Corridor, and the impact on Arlington taxpayers, before making a decision on a transit project which will have major long-term impacts for the County;

Whereas, the County Board appears likely to consider the recommendation of the WMATA study at its March meeting; and

Whereas, further study would help to clarify the likely costs and service issues associated with all of the transit proposals, including the "modified streetcar";

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Arlington County Republican Committee:

That the Arlington County Board should defer its decision on a "preferred alternative" for transit service on Columbia Pike;

That the County should ask WMATA for further study of the issues identified in this resolution and by other commenters in public hearings on the initial study, and then provide an opportunity for further public review and comment of a revised study, prior to any decision.

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Considered and adopted by the Arlington County Republican Committee
February 22, 2006, in Arlington, Virginia