Environmental Action Alert: Transportation Decisions in San Francisco Could Break High Speed Transit! [Updated: 3/31/09]

Don't Leave Riders Out in the Cold!

While BART provides easy access to San Francisco from the East Bay, traveling up from the peninsula to the city is another story. Caltrain’s northernmost station is at 4th and King St. – an inconvenient spot far from downtown and with limited connections to other transit. This discourages many commuters and visitors from taking public transportation over driving. Similarly, the proposed High Speed Rail to connect major urban centers across California is a great chance to dramatically reduce car and air trips within our vast state. However, the High Speed Rail may suffer a similar fate if it’s San Francisco terminus is set at 4th and King St. as well.

In 1999, San Francisco voters overwhelmingly passed Prop H to extend Caltrain and the future High Speed Rail to the Transbay Terminal at 1st and Mission. This would allow both trains to bring passengers to downtown San Francisco and a provide a direct connection with Muni, AC transit, BART, SamTrans, Golden Gate Transit, Greyhound, and WestCAT. Unfortunately, disputes over funding between the High Speed Rail Authority and the Transbay Joint Powers Authority have stalled progress on this project and threaten to continue the status quo.

The future of inter-city transportation in California should be a quick, convenient, and affordable rail system, not more highways and airlines. Decision makers need to hear from you – so take a moment to make your voice heard today!

Write Your Letter Today! Each letter represents the concerns of hundreds of voters. Send your letter today! Please follow these guidelines: Hand written letters are best. State clearly what action you want. Share a personal reason or experience. Include your address on the letter and envelope Write directly to: Quentin Kopp, Chair California High-Speed Rail Authority 925 L St. #1425 Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Chairman Kopp, Failing to extend the High Speed Rail to the new Transbay Terminal will cause major inconveniences for passengers. This will also discourage commuters from using rail transportation and thwart our ability to promote alternatives to driving. Please work to make sure the money is found to build the extension to the new Transbay Terminal as soon as possible. Thank You, [Sign with your Printed Name and Return Address]

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