My first comment is related to the idea that in transit there's a tendency in transit to focus on the "needs" rather than the "wants". I think its worth pointing out that one of the challenges with transit decision making is pursuit of the aspirational rather than focus on utility. Rubber tire trolleys are a good example in that some cities are so focused on streetcars, they ignore the value of a "cute bus" that comes reliably, frequently, and provides a reasonable level of comfort.
I think the main question, like all things transit, isn't "is this a good idea," but rather "is this the best use of the marginal tax dollar?"
Sometimes the answer is yes! I don't know off hand what the cost of the Christmas Train is for the CTA, but assuming its a couple hundred dollars, there probably arent many uses of that money that does more for the CTA.
It could reasonably be cost neutral! (I doubt it is). Since the train/bus runs regular routes, you can just swap in the holiday vehicle for an existing run. There's probably some maintenance cost associated with maintaining the vehicles, but nothing that couldn't be reasonably worked into existing maintenance costs
That is really cool and something I was not aware of! What a great way to activate the space around transit and make it feel more integrated with the community.
Funding can be a valuable piece of the conversation, but considering the community engagement that can be done with this I love it!
Thanks for the comment! I totally agree. In general, if a transit agency doesn't have the best reputation with its riding public, it's probably best to skip the gimmick and just focusing on delivering Good Transit.
I think the Transit Station Activation Projects that the RTA (Chicagoland) funded represent a successful gimmick. It funded things like open to all Yoga sessions in the lawns near transit stations and community events centered around CTA and Metra stations throughout the region.
There's always a valuable conversation to be had about tradeoffs in funding decisions, but I think simple programs like the ones in the RTA program help shift the perception of transit towards a more positive light.
My first comment is related to the idea that in transit there's a tendency in transit to focus on the "needs" rather than the "wants". I think its worth pointing out that one of the challenges with transit decision making is pursuit of the aspirational rather than focus on utility. Rubber tire trolleys are a good example in that some cities are so focused on streetcars, they ignore the value of a "cute bus" that comes reliably, frequently, and provides a reasonable level of comfort.
I think the main question, like all things transit, isn't "is this a good idea," but rather "is this the best use of the marginal tax dollar?"
Sometimes the answer is yes! I don't know off hand what the cost of the Christmas Train is for the CTA, but assuming its a couple hundred dollars, there probably arent many uses of that money that does more for the CTA.
It could reasonably be cost neutral! (I doubt it is). Since the train/bus runs regular routes, you can just swap in the holiday vehicle for an existing run. There's probably some maintenance cost associated with maintaining the vehicles, but nothing that couldn't be reasonably worked into existing maintenance costs
That is really cool and something I was not aware of! What a great way to activate the space around transit and make it feel more integrated with the community.
Funding can be a valuable piece of the conversation, but considering the community engagement that can be done with this I love it!
Really interesting piece! I think it's so important to drive a balance between a gimmick and something that becomes infuriating to the rider.
In your opinion, what are some gimmicks that have had good success records when implemented by transit agencies?
Thanks for the comment! I totally agree. In general, if a transit agency doesn't have the best reputation with its riding public, it's probably best to skip the gimmick and just focusing on delivering Good Transit.
I think the Transit Station Activation Projects that the RTA (Chicagoland) funded represent a successful gimmick. It funded things like open to all Yoga sessions in the lawns near transit stations and community events centered around CTA and Metra stations throughout the region.
There's always a valuable conversation to be had about tradeoffs in funding decisions, but I think simple programs like the ones in the RTA program help shift the perception of transit towards a more positive light.
https://www.rtachicago.org/blog/2024/07/25/transit-station-activation-in-uptown-brings-positive-presence-to-broadway-bus-route-with-weekly-outdoor-yoga-class