Smyrna Shuttle
Smyrna Shuttle should be electric and small, just like in nearby Chattanooga, TN, which has undergone a staggering and wonderful transformation the last 25 years. I assume the unloaded operating cost (including the driver!) must be $60K to $100K per year. So how do you justify that cost? It becomes something for keeping citizens and attracting new citizens. Since it doesn’t require dedicated lanes, it could speed up everyone else’s commute by removing a few vehicles from the road. Heck, combined with several other interesting ideas to make Smyrna known as Georgia’s green city, part of it can be a marketing cost. If need be, charge $.25/ride and have a donation box.
If, and only if, the system is successful, then it can be expanded incrementally. And if it is not, it can be put into hibernation until its time comes again. Smyrna is small enough that one bus would do. [This would be part of a comprehensive people-friendly transportation plan that would also include widening/adding sidewalks, etc. And don’t forget how Smart Cars will change the landscape.
Enjoy the future. NS.
6/2015; updated 1/2017
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