One of the biggest challenges we face in government is how we engage the public. “Get Us Moving” is one example of getting it right!
“Get Us Moving” is a diverse coalition of regional leaders, transportation experts, employers of all sizes, non-profit groups and volunteer community members who have join to find a solution to San Mateo County’s complex transportation issues.
At today’s Board of Supervisors meeting, SamTrans CEO Jim Hartnett gave a presentation on the “Get Us Moving” efforts, including a summary of the Phase One education and outreach efforts. Bryan Godbe of Godbe Research shared poll results that showed support for a 1/2 cent sales tax. In fact, in 2017 65.7% supported the 1/2 cent sales tax increase, that number is now 74.1%. We learned that over 14,000 people completed the transportation survey. That is truly impressive!
As a result, the Board unanimously approved funding of up to $300,000 to the San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) for the Phase Two of the outreach program to continue engaging San Mateo County residents on transportation issues and solutions.
In Phase Two, we have the opportunity to share with residents what we have learned and to further refine the final expenditure plan that will go to the voters this November.
This year presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to develop a local transportation plan directly to our priorities in San Mateo County. In addition, we will be able to leverage those dollars with hundreds of millions of dollars from regional, state, federal and private dollars.
It is an exciting time to plan our transportation priorities for future generations.