Proposition 104, AKA MovePHX, funds a 35-year transit plan by increasing the sales tax for transit from 0.40% to 0.70%, and continuing it beyond its originally scheduled expiration in 2020.  The city estimates the tax will bring in around $17b in additional revenue over its lifetime, and with more funding from other sources the city plans to spend something approaching $32b on transit improvements.  Among the proposals: more light rail, more frequent bus service and new routes, more bike friendliness, and street & sidewalk improvements.

Let me just say, I would love—LOVE—to be able to get rid of my car.  Vehicles are a huge expense, second only to housing in most budgets.  Car payments, maintenance, fuel, insurance, repairs, registration—it’s a money pit.  I would support a reasonable, realistic plan for public transportation in Phoenix, but I have difficulty believing that this is it.  Prop 104 is a cornucopia of spending seasoned with broken promises, questionable utility, and a distinct lack of accountability. Continue reading Phoenix Prop 104: MovePHX Transit Plan & Tax Increase →