Gasoline Still Going Up
Bay Crossings Staff Report
Published: June, 2004
A growing number of observers are now predicting $3.00 a gallon gas prices for California (and that’s for regular). In turn, ferry operators and agencies will be faced with higher fuel bills as these prices spill over to non-road use diesel fuel, as used in most ferries.
BART Considering Cell Service in Tunnels
BART is considering wiring its tunnels for cell phone reception, so you can make calls in the formerly “dark” areas.
Caltrain to Start Baby Bullets
Starting after June 6th, Caltrain will begin operating its express service, called the “Baby Bullet Train” between San Francisco and San Jose, saving more than 30 minutes of travel time. Peninsula residents have given up weekend Caltrain service for over two years to allow construction of extra passing tracks that will allow the new schedules to bypass stations and slower trains. Weekend service resumes on June 5th.
The Governor Terminates AC Transit Budget
Governor Schwarzenegger’s proposed budget lifts $20 million a year for two years out of AC Transit’s already chopped budget to help balance the state’s budget. The Hummer-driving Governor’s cut represents 6% of the total amounts to be collected from all over the state, according to AC Transit. The District also says it would be forced to cut $20 million in service by July 1st to make up the difference. This additional cut comes directly after AC raised its rates and cut service to balance its current budget for a $25 million savings.
Golden Gate Fares to Go UP
The Bridge District approved a 10% increase in bus and ferry rates to help balance the budget. The rate increases are scheduled for July 1st.
Bay Area Air Quality District Levies Fine
The Air Quality District levied a fine at the Port of Oakland against SSA Terminals for allowing its trucks, who were waiting for admission to the terminal to idle for longer than 30 minutes. The amount of the fine has not yet been announced, but could be up to $250 per violation.
BART Faces Budget Cuts
BART also faces budget cuts of $9 million in the Governor’s take-back budget plan.
Old Ferry Photographs
Some of the Guy Span collection of old ferry photographs, posters, and a few models are on display at the Lurie Company 2nd Floor Atrium Gallery located at 901 Market Street (at 5th). The exhibit will be on display from June 4th to September 17th, and the gallery is open to the public from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Along with the photographs, watercolors of historic scenes by Larry A. Wilson, S.W.A., will also be on display.
