Dump The Pump

 

I certainly commend the OCTA for joining 90 other public transpiration systems throughout the country to encourage commuters to leave their cars at home and try public transit on June 21st for the National Dump the Pump Day (sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association).

But who do they think they will lure out of their cozy cars and into crowded and unpredictably late buses and trains with doughnuts and juice?  Homer Simpson, maybe—but not the average Orange County resident.

There are quite a few compelling reasons to use mass transit (energy benefits, savings in gas, the effects of smog, traffic relief), I just wish that some of the marketing folks at the OCTA could start to get a little more creative with promotions.

From the Los Angeles Times story:

“With increased gas prices, people are searching for ways to get around without putting a dent in their pocketbooks,” said Carolyn Cavecche, Orange County Transportation Authority chairwoman.

OCTA is joining hundreds of other transit agencies nationwide participating in the event for the second year. Staff members will be at Fullerton Metrolink station with doughnuts and juice for morning commuters.