The following article was posted by Steve Patterson for WZZM13.com on the support of the proposed Silver Line rapid transit system.

Supporters hit the streets for Silver Line millage

Published: April 18, 2009

EAST GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - The West Michigan group Friends of Transit said a Silver Line bus line would bring millions of dollars in development to the area. First though, supporters of the new system have to convince people it's a good idea.

Lawmakers are setting aside $40 million in state and federal funds for The Rapid's new Silver Line transit system. It is a ten mile bus route on Division stretching from Wealthy to 60th Street.

It would be the first project of it's kind approved in Michigan, but to secure the project and the money needed, six West Michigan cities have to approve the millage.

On Saturday, more than a dozen volunteers hit the streets in East Grand Rapids to spread the word.

"I think that people can make a difference and that people need to get involved," said volunteer Cheri Giles. "This is a vibrant city and we need this. This is our first chance to get some light mass transit in place."

The millage is the last barrier between a new rapid-transit bus system and the West Michigan pavement.

With its own long distance lanes and speed regulations, supporters say if the millage goes through, the new system would work more like a train than a bus line.

"It's faster, more convenient transit, we're talking about cleaner air and the creation of over 400 jobs," said campaign director Ruth Kelly. "In transit rich communities, people spend about 9% of their household budget on transportation, in auto dependant communities, it's up to 25%"

The proposal appears on the ballot on May 5th.

Steve Patterson