Posts Tagged ‘AC Transit’

As Oakland takes steps toward becoming an “age-friendly city,” District 3 residents shared how issues like high housing costs and access to transportation affect local seniors.

After 20 years of collaboration, the Oakland Unified School District and Alameda Contra-Costa Transit are now negotiating to find a cheaper way to provide bus services to local students.

Early this morning, from East Oakland to West, students climbed into AC Transit buses, fares or passes in hand, and commuted to schools in other neighborhoods. In 2004, the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) rolled out a new enrollment policy, an “options process” which allowed parents to send children to schools outside of their neighborhoods. Parents wanted equal access to opportunities at schools throughout Oakland, and some specialty programs were only offered at one or two schools. Since the district does not operate its own bus service, most students commute using public transit.

The Oakland Police Department’s proposed purchase of shotguns and transfer vehicles were the most hotly contested items discussed at the concurrent Oakland City Council and Oakland Redevelopment Successor meeting Tuesday night. Other business included a year-end presentation by State Assemblymember Rob Bonta (District 18), a presentation of the AC Transit service expansion plan, and an adjustment to parking fees.

“Another strike in the Bay Area is the last thing we need,” said Brown in a press release. “I urge the parties to resolve their differences, keeping the bus-riding public in mind.”

After months of bargaining and a week of unfulfilled strike threats that kept commuters on edge, BART workers went on strike after unions and management failed to reach a deal on employee contract terms.

Despite the constant threat of transit strikes, all trains will be running as normal tomorrow and negotiations will continue once more for BART workers’ contracts.