CNBNews

The DRPA presented five different alternatives for PATCO grade or light rail passenger trains coming through Gloucester City at last week's Gloucester City Business Association meeting. Why was the public not given this opportunity? I am aware of only three proposed routes. If they are considering five different alternatives thru Gloucester City as a citizen I should also be given this information.

  I support the concept of mass transit, But that does not mean every transit project is a winner, you just need to look at the last light rail fiasco. We should question the DRPA and the State of NJ when they plan on spending billions of our money.

  The DRPA does not have the best record when it comes to spending. The DRPA bypassed voters the last time around, that should be unconstitutional. The state built the last rail line and ignored other pressing transportation needs in NJ. Have you heard about the bridges? The deck of the Walt Whitman has a life span of 50 years. We're at 50 years, 3 months. The Ben Franklin Bridge looks like its crumbling with rust. PATCO runs 1970 era train cars, all in much need of repair. If the DRPA had spent our money wisely the last time around, maybe we would have the money for these much needed projects. Remember what happened in Minnesota on a bridge during rush hour traffic? If you don't, the bridge collapsed—only in America.

  I am still wondering if we will ever stop subsidizing the last Light Rail line. Did you know that the DRPA is asking for $5 tolls to cross the bridges. What about the $17 million that was spent on the non-existent aerial tram over the Delaware River, what happened to that project/money? How about the $3 million submarine simulator at the Adventure Aquarium in Camden what happened to that project/money? That never came up for air. I hope the DRPA and it's officials will be held more accountable with our money. I would like to meet with John Matheussen from the DRPA doesn't he work for me?

Joanne Howey, Gloucester City