Brian's Team Clean Air Actions
In response to the air quality concerns our Valley is facing, I initiated "Team Clean Air" legislation in December 2003, which requires the City of Fresno to reduce harmful emissions by 6% -- or almost 569 tons of particulate matter -- over a three-year period. By committing to teleworking, electric vehicles and clean fleets, traffic synchronization, bicycle programs, mass transit alternatives, and e-government options, the City made significant progress towards reaching the goal of 6%. In August, 2006, I proposed extending "Team Clean Air" until 2009, and requiring the City to cut emissions by another 5%. The new developments to "Team Clean Air" will be presented by City staff soon.
Also, in November, the City Council affirmed their commitment to the U.S. Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement (Kyoto Protocol), and approved my resolution requiring the City Manager to enact the 10-point program this agreement entailed.
On a personal level, I am proud to be in a one-car family. In order to get from home to City Hall, Fresno City College (where I am a full-time instructor), and many of my other engagements, I often rely on alternative methods of transportation.
For short trips, I often commute on my 'FresYES Bike.' Fresno has plenty of bike lanes that provide 'bikers' with a safe place to travel. Riding a bicycle is a clean, quick method for traveling, and the exercise is good for you, too.
For commuting to Fresno City College and City Hall, I often use the FAX bus system. Many of the FAX buses operate on reduced emission natural gas. The routes are easy to navigate and there are many conveniently placed bus stops. My friends, the bus drivers, are professional and courteous. I am shown here with Rudy Salas. The FAX buses also accommodate bikes, so you can double up on your clean transportation!
Except for federal holidays, the FAX bus system runs every day of the year. On weekdays, the buses operate from 5:30 am -- 10 pm. On the weekends, the buses operate on limited hours, from 6:30 am -- 7 pm. It is only $1 to ride. For more information on the FAX bus system, or to obtain a monthly bus pass, please go to http://www.fresno.gov/fax.
When I travel outside of Fresno, I use Amtrak.
The train stops in most major cities across the U.S. While the train clicks along the tracks, you can read, relax, and enjoy the company of the pleasant pasengers around you. Some train tickets start as low as $38. With today's gas prices, it would be nigh impossible to travel that inexpensively by car. Additionally, our newly restored Historic Santa Fe Depot (show to the right) is a gorgeous departure point for your travels.
Public transportation is easy, convenient, and inexpensive. When you go out today, consider riding a bike or taking a bus. Use the train for your next vacation and ride in style and comfort. Every action helps to reduce pollution and improve our air quality. Join me, and "Team Clean Air," to boost our quality of life by cleaning our air!