We hear and learn from our actual customers as they answer our "10 Questions with Metro Transit!" Today we meet Zane!
How long have you been riding the bus or train?
I started using transit two years ago. But I have been riding frequently since the METRO Gold Line opened March 22.
How often do you ride?
Three days a week.
Favorite route(s)?
Definitely Gold Line. That’s No. 1. I also use the Green Line, Route 21, and I have used the Blue Line occasionally for getting to the airport.
Why do you ride transit?
First of all, it’s cheap. Owning and operating a car is really, really expensive. Another thing is it maintains my happiness level. I think most people can agree driving is stressful with people yelling at each other and doing aggressive things. I hate dealing with that. Another reason is it’s healthier. I get a little bike ride on either end of the Gold Line ride between my home in Saint Paul and my bus stop and between Maplewood Station and my job as a biomedical engineer at Solventum. Removing cars from the road is a net benefit for public health because presumably there are fewer traffic collisions and less pollution. I believe in having more than just cars as an option for transportation in a city. I choose to ride transit to support these options.
What you wish “first-timers” knew?
Google Maps transit routing is really good. When there are delays or transfers, it tells you everything you need to know. It’s so easy, and, most importantly, it is the same amount of work as routing a car trip, you just have to hit the transit option instead of the car.
Favorite destination?
All the concert venues: The Fine Line, First Avenue, Xcel Energy Center and the Turf Club.
What does Metro Transit get right?
I appreciate the significant improvements happening lately with the BRT lines and the dedicated lanes, so buses don’t get stuck in traffic. Bus rapid transit is frequent enough that you don’t have to check the schedule. Increasing the density of the BRT network makes it much more useful.
What can we improve?
Signal priority on the Green Line is so necessary. It takes so long to get to Minneapolis on the Green Line. Regarding safety and security, it has been a concern that has pushed people away from using transit, but I have noticed improvements because there has been more fare inspection. Increasing ridership will help with safety and security, too. Increasing the frequency and the density of the network will get more people to ride. The more convenient it is, the more people will ride, and there will be social pressure to behave.
Favorite onboard memory?
When I am on a bus or train with friends headed to a concert, it’s fun because it’s so carefree. We don’t have to have a designated driver, worry about parking and who will pay for parking. You just show up, pay your $2 and go have fun, which is awesome.
Favorite movie about transit?
“Snowpiercer.”
Want to share your answers to the “10 Questions” with us? This is a recurring feature in the Connect email newsletter and Rider’s Almanac blog and a fun way to feature and learn from you, our customers. Send an email with “10 Questions” in the subject line to [email protected]. Submission does not guarantee publication. We’ll be in touch!