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Editor: 

I agree with both writers, Sennet Williams and Rob Wrenn, that UC must implement an Eco Pass for the faculty and staff and this should happen this semester. As the chair of the Improve Transit/Parking Subcommittee of the UCB Labor Coalition, that collaborates with other community groups, we have over 1,600 signatures on our petition showing the need for a free transit pass for staff/faculty. 

It is clear that UC has the money and needs to end the backward parking first “financial model” which prevents using parking funds for a free Eco Pass. UCLA is using parking funds for their free bus pass system. It is also clear that UCB may use California state monies for building parking or for alternative transportation, but these monies are not being utilized. Countless forward-thinking companies provide free eco-pass systems (The Chevron Company, provides free BART tickets to its employees). 

Many creative ideas for starting the Eco-Pass, carpool matching, a commuter “check” refund, more safe bicycle parking and paths would enable UC to be in the vanguard of alternative transportation. Starting with a free Eco-Pass, UC should definitely work with the City of Berkeley, which would support the Southside/Downtown TDM study and help mitigate the increase of traffic to the northern quadrangle. 

We all agree that if the City of Berkeley, UCLA and countless other forward-thinking employers provide free transit, why not UC this semester? 

Norah Foster 

Chair, Improve Transit/Parking 

UCB [Labor Coalition]