On tolls, Cero lacks long-term vision

While I understand Councilmember Cero’s political position against tolling I-90, I am disheartened by his absence of a long-term, sustainable transportation vision.

Cero frames the discussion from an equity standpoint. I certainly agree that equity considerations must be made, especially for teachers, seniors, mobility-limited and low-income users.

But he fails to mention the diversionary consequences of tolling 520 without tolling I-90 (e.g., increased congestion, lost time and economic productivity).

And he misses the boat on an even bigger issue. He seems to assume that a personal vehicle is the only means of transport for Islanders, even though many residents commute by bus.

He does not touch on the opportunity to use I-90 tolling revenues to support transit improvements and increase transportation choices for Islanders. Instead, he encourages us to write our state reps and echo his concerns.

I’m concerned. And I am curious to hear how he proposes to meet the city’s ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050, without changing the way we travel.

Allison Schwartz