Vincent Harding
City Council, District 1
We must invest in multi modal transportation options. As we do so, we must ensure that these investments are equitable, and support our entire city. When we look to increasing city density, and a possible land use code rewrite, we must ensure that we are looking at transportation as part of the equation. This must also be equitable, and as we invest in our communities we must invest in safe and effective public transportation. We also need to coordinate with the areas around us. As someone that has worked at the Texas Department of Transportation, I understand that the coordination of efforts is important to relieving congestion and improving mobility. Central Texas needs the transportation system of the 21st century that includes various modes of transportation such as cars, rail, buses, bicycles, walking, scooters, and autonomous vehicles.
As a Council Member, I would advocate for dedicated pathways for mass transit. A large number of major cities utilize dedicate lanes to make mass transit more productive. The improvements in technology from synchronized lights to autonomous vehicles will help Central Texas take strides in coming years. I also support the green line, as we need to increase mass transit and economic opportunities in eastern Travis County. I supported Cap Metro providing free bus passes for children during the summer and should be considering more free and reduced passes. Additionally, I want to increase the number of sidewalks in District 1 to improve conditions for the disabled and children. While increasing sidewalks, I want to ensure that we are cognizant of how that will impact impervious cover.