Public transit
I would like to comment on Dr Mackie’s Comment column of the November 2008 issue [BCMJ 2008;50:480], commending him for his leadership in promoting the use of public transit.
I have been a user of public transit since my school days, for going to work, classes, and even when I travel. We purposely chose our dwelling so that I was in walking distance of my workplace. I also take the bus from Richmond to Vancouver for meetings, conferences, and even entertainment.
I concur with all of Dr Mackie’s listed benefits to using public transit. Many people decline using public transit because of time, saying they can get around faster by car. Actually, this is not nearly always the case in our traffic-clogged roadways. Furthermore, what are they saving time for? Staying at the office and getting more work done? Going home to do more work there? Using transit gets you out with others in our society, versus isolating yourself in the cocoon of your car as you travel back and forth. You are also being a careful user of nonrenewable resources and doing a favor for the environment.
—Lorne Brandt, MD
Richmond