NEWS FROM PAGE 20 SANDAG


Bus is,” she said. “But you’re never going to get light rail unless you demonstrate that the transit corri- dor can support it. [Light rail] takes 20 years to design and plan.” A project within the 2050 plan


that Lowe said the coalition sup- ports is the so-called Kearny Mesa Guideway—previously the Uptown Spine—that would create a fast transit system from downtown through Hillcrest into Mission Val- ley and ending at Kearny Mesa. While the details are still sketchy, she said this is the kind of idea that will improve quality of life for a wide swath of people, but it will require remov- ing some of those parking spaces community mem- bers cherish. “We would have transit


not a win-win situation.” Lowe said she is aware of the community interest in bringing back Uptown’s iconic streetcars but that while they are in the 2050 plan, they are not slated for implementation. “I think streetcars are fun. They


are an attractive choice for people taking really short trips, although there is nothing really fast about them,” she said. “But there has been no money set aside for them at


priority lanes for buses only and there will be impacts,” she said, predicting that project will face the same public outcry the Rapid Bus has under- gone. “In San Diego we want transit but we don’t want to give up any- thing that deprioritizes the car. It’s


The above is a rendering, not actual, Rapid Bus that some officials would like to use as a model for better transit options for San Diego's next 40 years. (Courtesy of Move San Diego)


all. SANDAG is depending on local businesses and communities to pick up the tab. They have zero (SAN- DAG) funding attached to them.” The bottom line, Lowe said, is that the coalition agrees with a


number of SANDAG’s initiatives in the 2050 plan—the organization conducted its own comprehensive look at the region called the “Fast Plan”—but there are still too many discrepancies yet for comfort. She said the coalition will continue to advocate for more dollars and time devoted to public transit, and they welcome those who want to join their effort. “We will be working with all of the 18 jurisdictions in San Diego to advocate for smart growth and smart transit. If people want to come out and help us we’d like to bring our partners to our meetings,” she said. “People who don’t want to take their cars should re- ally speak up about hav- ing walkable, livable com- munities. They should be speaking out and writing letters to the editor that say we want money to go to more than freeway expansions. San Diego needs to be a safer place


for biking, walking and connecting to transit.” To find out more about the San


Diego Regional Coalition for Tran- sit Solutions, go to sdrcts.wikispac- es.com.u


Pets of the Week


By Megan Robinson Shelter Volunteer


COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER 5480 Gaines St., San Diego, Calif.


767-2611| Adoption Counselor


Kai is an 8-years-young spayed Chihuahua mix who came to the shelter as a stray. She is a favorite of both shelter staff and volunteers because of her lovable personality and friendliness towards all who meet her. To befriend Kai, ask for ID# A1379405 Tag# C633 when coming to the shelter. She can be adopted for the Senior Fee of just $35, however this fee will be waived for seniors looking to adopt a senior pet.


SWIMCARE


Felicia is a 3-year-old female Tortie who came to the shelter as a stray. She is patiently waiting for pet parents looking for a furry friend to warm up their laps during the winter months. Relax and unwind from the holiday stress by adopting a feline who asks for nothing more than regular pettings, chin scratches and warm spot for naps. Felicia can be adopted for $58. Ask for ID# A1388359 Tag# C826 when coming to the shelter.


All adoption fees include vaccinations, spaying/ neutering (upon adoption), a microchip and free Vet visit. Dog fees also include a 1-year license. Kai and Felicia are at our Central County Shelter, 5480 Gaines St. The S]shelter hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday or visit sddac. com for more information.


San Diego Uptown News | January 7–20, 2011 Uptown Games Uptown’s


21


Sudoku


Answer key, page 22


Uptown Crossword


The Pool


Service & Repair people you keep.


TOM RIVES Cont. Lic# 445392 New Year's Hopper Answer key, page 22


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