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Public Transit's Role In Disaster Planning

Posted by: Christian Peralta Madera

23 October 2006 - 8:00am

As both a major target of terrorism and a valuable evacuation tool, disaster planning officials are taking a closer look at the vulnerabilities and possibilities for mass transit.

"In many disaster scenarios, public transit is in the middle: Terrorists blow up buses and trains. An earthquake shakes loose BART's Transbay Tube.

But bus, subway and ferry operators are learning that buses, subways and ferries can be invaluable tools in dealing with the aftermath of terror attacks or natural disasters.

As Bay Area residents witnessed after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, a rail system like BART -- which survived when the Bay Bridge failed -- can become a vital emergency link when others fail.

Buses, key to evacuating New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, can also be used as ambulances or even shelter. Mississippi was so adamant about mobilizing public transit after Katrina that transportation authorities commandeered gasoline tankers that were deemed off-limits by the Federal Emergency Management Agency."

Disaster and public safety officials recently met in Southern California to discuss findings from past experiences.

Full Story: Authorities roll mass transit into post-disaster planning
Source: The Contra Costa Times, October 22, 2006
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In the long term, removing major urban freeways should be part of a more comprehensive approach to reduce automobile dependency by promoting public transportation and transit-oriented development.
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