On Monday, June 11–just weeks before the July 1 deadline for MBTA fare hikes and service cuts–mayors from across the state gathered at South Station to show their support for working together and finding a solution for the state’s transportation finance troubles. Watch our video of highlights from speakers at the Metro Mayors Transportation Summit on YouTube:
Each speaker voiced support for finding comprehensive, state-wide solutions that address a long-term vision for improved transportation in the Commonwealth, and many underscored the importance of strong transportation systems on the economic vitality of the state; as well as the health and well-being of all residents.
The crowd was rallied by the sounds of transportation’s greatest hits, in a playlist compiled by MAPC staff:
The M.T.A. – The Kingston Trio
Running Down a Dream – Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
(Take me Home) Country Roads – Toots And the Maytals
Route 66 – Chuck Berry
The Trolly Song – Judy Garland
Life is a Highway – Rascal Flatts
Chattanooga Choo Choo – Glen Miller / Tex Beneke and the Modernaires with Paula Kelly
Ticket to Ride – Beatles
Back of the Bus – G. Love
Cars – Gary Numan
Train Kept A-Rollin’ – Aerosmith
Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf
The Traveling Song – The Avett Brothers
I am the Highway – Audioslave
I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash
Drive my Car – Beatles
Mustang Sally – Wilson Pickett
Walken – Wilco
Roadrunner – Bo Diddley
Working on the Highway – Bruce Springsteen
Stickshifts and Safetybelts – Cake
Crossroads – Cream
Hitch Hike – The Sonics
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers
City of New Orleans – Arlo Guthrie
Further on Down the Road (You Will Accompany me) – Taj Mahal
The event ended with all of the Mayors signing a giant transportation pledge poster, and attendees signing pledge forms and giving their contact information in order to stay up to date on future events and action alerts from MAPC.
If you’re interested in being added to our growing list of transportation finance reform supporters, please send an email to Government Affairs Coordinator Charlie Ticotsky at [email protected], or Transportation Coordinator Jessica Robertson at [email protected].