Tracy grew up in a rural town in upstate New York with no transit options. As a person with low vision, Tracy can’t drive or ride a bike, so she relied on her friends and family to get around.
When Tracy moved to Seattle in 2001, it was the first time she could get around independently. “It was a life-changing point to have so many resources at my fingertips that could get me where I needed to go.”
Tracy moved to the University District because it was close to her graduate program at the University of Washington. After graduating, Tracy decided to stay in the neighborhood, primarily because of its access to transit, and has been there for over 18 years.
“It’s easy to walk and get where I need to go because it’s so connected,” Tracy says of her neighborhood. The University District is home to many bus lines, a light rail station near Husky stadium, and a soon-to-be light rail stop opening near the University Avenue in 2021.
“Transit is incredibly valuable, no matter where you are. Whether you are in a rural town or urban area, having transit choices opens up your life.”Tim Eyman’s Initiative 976 would eliminate transit lifelines. I-976 would cut millions of dollars of life-giving services across Washington that ensure people living with disabilities are able to get where they need to go. It would also delay and potentially cut Sound Transit light rail expansion and 175,000 hours of bus service in King County. “My life is built on transit,” says Tracy. “It would be a huge upheaval as transit is a foundational part of my life. Everyone should have transportation options and opportunities, no matter where you live.”
We need more transportation options to connect people to opportunities throughout our state, not less. Reliable and affordable transportation is integral to living a healthy, connected, and productive life. Vote NO on I-976 and help keep people moving.
This blog post was created in partnership with Rooted in Rights and is also posted on their blog: https://rootedinrights.org/i-976-impacts-my-life-is-built-on-transit.
