If Jacksonville fails to get Bus Rapid Transit, it would be a tragic failure.  As it is, currently with long headways, the JTA system is ineffective in all but rush hour service. However, because Metro Jacksonville and Jacksonville Transit Blog have expressed support for commuter rail, streetcars and light rail doesn't mean we stand against all BRT.

On Tuesday evening, at the request of Executive Director Michael Blaylock, Metro Jacksonville representatives met with JTA officials to openly discuss the future of mass transit in Jacksonville.

Last week, JTA published an article proclaiming that BRT is the best solution for Jacksonville despite what others may say. Today, Metro Jacksonville responds by pointing out why JTA is mistaken in their proposal.

The full text of JTA's article from their in house newsletter follows: 

If you ask people whether they would rather ride a bus or a train – most would probably choose a train. There has long been a fascination and a certain romance in this country for trains. Trains are part of the fabric of America. As children, we grew up playing with trains. But when it comes to public transportation, however, trains may not always be the best choice. Case in point – Jacksonville.

For those that did not take advantage of JTA's open house presentations a few months back, here is what they have proposed for Downtown Jacksonville's streets.

JTA has revealed their selections for Bus Rapid Transit stations throughout Jacksonville.  Is your property in the crosshairs? 

Will Jacksonville be able to survive BRT?

Find out why JTA's plans for downtown could mean the end of Art Walk, as we know it today.

Forget sidewalk cafes, you won't even be able to hear yourself think with the number of buses JTA's BRT plan will send through downtown streets. 

In this image, Los Angeles' "Orange Line" BRT lane is blocked by a stalled car.  In the spirit of the situation, Downtown Vision has become the first public agency to oppose JTA's BRT plans, potentially altering the agency's wishes to force their buses down Adams, Forsyth & Bay Streets at the expense of the downtown environment.  For more details read DVI's official letter.