Jitneys Could Improve California’s Mass Transit
Commentary
Numerous stories show California’s mass transit is suffering big problems. And that’s not even counting the High-Speed Rail boondoggle. On May 22, Calmatters provided a summary, noting transit agencies are seeking $5.5 billion more in operating funds, even as the state faces a budget deficit of at least $31.5 billion.
But here’s a solution: more jitneys. They are private transportation systems, including small buses, that predate Uber and Lyft.
A good example comes from the Philippines, where “Jeepneys,” as they’re called, started out as jeeps from the American military forces that liberated the country from occupation by Imperial Japan. They’re still operating, despite ongoing attempts by the government to replace them with “clean fuel” minivans. Benar News reported in March:…