Although everyone present at the train forum conceded that it was absurdly expensive and impractical, they wanted to proceed. The moderator, a professional consultant, preached resolve and grants. Between the $Billion dollar price tag, and the $12Million yearly loss projected, the Paul Marin inspired $250,000 report seemed like a bargain. The report, by the Systra Design Group, essentially said what everyone over 25 years old, or not a professional public money spender, already knew. Of course the sponsors of the event, LV Renew, are in the under 25 category. Most of the speakers were in the public spending group. One of my favorite targets and quotes is from my pal Panto; he sees tourist coming on the train. Imagine, New Yorkers getting on the train at Penn Station, to come to Easton's Al Bundy High School Sports Museum. If the train plan went full steam ahead, it would take to 2030 before we heard the actual whistle. By then, the Renew kids will probably be living in the suburbs, telling their kids to keep away from the city. Panto, and the public money spenders, will be in Depends.
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photo explanation; picture is from the future, 2035, The Poverty Express, bringing more needy to the Lehigh Valley
Oh how shortsighted you are MM. The beloved mayor has a secret plan. Just like Goldman Sachs, he is designing a product to fail. No problem. AIG will sell him insurance on it, far above the true value and far in excess of the taxpayers' investment. The valley will be a big winner. Isn't capitalism great!
ReplyDeleteMr. Molovinsky,
ReplyDeleteYou're really funny this morning. This was fun to read. Well, maybe not for Panto.
What is this? One billion dollars for 800 or so riders in 20 years?
ReplyDeleteIs Renew LV going to pay for this or are they going to find a way to use our tax dollars.
Sounds like the park issue, private interest - public funds.
Are the tax free organizations and trusts only interested in private benefit or to serve the public trust?
The Central Railroad Company of New Jersey bulit the right of way 150 years ago. It still exists.
ReplyDelete.
The cost seems off the wall. A few trainsets and some inexpensive signalling is all that's really needed. It's not rocket science, it's 200 year old railroad technology we're talking about.
What is the problem here people?
ReplyDeleteIt is only a billion dollars.
Like this is supposed to be a big deal or something that we should be concerned about.
Obama spends trillions.
Relax, already.
Obama has got a printing press in good working order.
No worries.
What do you think Federal grant money is for anyway?
Why do you think it is important to always vote Democrat and be progressive?
Sheeesh.
Get a clue.
You have no vision, Sir.
ReplyDeleteThe Al Bundy Jr. High School Sports Museum in Easton will be a smash success.
Just like the Muhlenberg Lake Paddle Boats at Cedar Beach.
The billion dollar number is suspect. It needs further analysis.
ReplyDeleteBut, what will widening 22 cost? About the same.
Look at the benefits to each. With road projects, you get more sprawl. With trains, you get reinvestment in your cities and boroughs.
Michael, you tell me which you want and what you are willing to pay to make it happen.
I followed the link to the Morning Call article and it had a picture of the people in the audience at this event. They look good, but I wouldn't put their ages anywhere near 25. I don't know where you came up with that number. Check your facts, Mike. I think you'll find that the average age of RenewLV folks is closer to 50.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous said...
ReplyDeleteI followed the link to the Morning Call article and it had a picture of the people in the audience at this event. They look good, but I wouldn't put their ages anywhere near 25. I don't know where you came up with that number. Check your facts, Mike. I think you'll find that the average age of RenewLV folks is closer to 50.
April 22, 2010 4:13 AM
We attended this event and estimate the average age 50/75.
well, they probably looked 75 to you. i have heard that the meeting was mostly attended by the realtors association
ReplyDelete