> As someone who grew up there, I have to say, I'm > shocked to hear you say it. I always hated the DC > Metro system because it was: > 1) Too expensive and > 2) Not extensive > By which I meant that it cost a lot to get anywhere, > and I couldn't get to the parties in Georgetown, which > is where I wanted to go :-) Plus, it stopped at > midnight. I can't tell you how much I preferred NYC's > and Boston's subway systems.
The buses run at all hours, which is a *lot* more than you can say for Austin. When I was last in DC, the system was *incredibly* good for getting me where I wanted to be going. (And as for having to walk to Georgetown, we were doing an awful lot of walking that day, didn't give in to the public transportation system until *after* the free evening concert at the Kennedy Center.)
Julia
I'm 10 miles from my job. I drive every day and park a ten minute walk away for free. Going by standard rates I figure it costs me $140 a month. That's almost three times the amount to drive compared to the bus rates. But the bus was neither convenient nor reliable. I consider my time to be worth enough that I'm saving money by driving myself. Even if it was faster, I think the rates are too high by at least half.
When I was offered my job I figured I'd be taking the train in, but it's even higher and the times are horrible. I can't get to work before seven, and the first train home is after 4:30. (Actually the first train leaves at 2:55. It's like Amtrac doesn't realize people work 8 hours a day.)
Of course I tried bike commuting, but I was scared once too often. I enjoy bike riding, but when I started to dread it I stopped. Plus, I cannot do that and get clean enough at work, just the type of person I am.
They are talking of putting in a light rail service here using the Amtrac lines. If the rates are cheaper than Amtrac and the times better, I will use it.
Kevin T. - VRWC and I'm going to be late now ;-)
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