text: How can the city reduce downtown traffic congestion? - Post Bulletin | Rochester Minnesota news, weather, sports
  We asked Rochester City Council candidates from Wards 1 and 3 what, if anything, they would suggest the council do to reduce downtown traffic impacts.
  To reduce traffic congestion during the morning rush hours, I would suggest the city and downtown businesses work together to encourage more employees to use public transportation.
  I work downtown and often hear people say public transportation isn't reliable enough to get to work on time and still drop-off and pick-up kids from daycare. Research is needed to ensure public transportation is a viable option for those working throughout Rochester.
  Also, we must consider that many employees working in Rochester commute. The city council must work with surrounding cities to find a solution for all who work in Rochester. Goals include:
  • More bus routes.
  • Run more frequent hours throughout the day.
  • More park-and-ride in neighborhoods.
  • Payroll deduction for bus passes.
  In the first place, nothing is perfect. Honest Bike Shop is downtown and customers can always get to us and find parking available.
  I have no problem dropping someone off at the front door of Mayo Clinic anytime. I currently have a little trouble around construction zones, but if we want growth, we have to deal with it.
  The issue is Mayo employees and parking. Mayo has done an excellent job providing parking ramps, lots and shuttles, subsidizing bus fares and encouraging employees to walk, bike or ride a bus.
  We should work with Mayo to see that more ramps are erected and kept and encourage Mayo's continued use of the aforementioned and of more rapid and limited-stop bus service from outlying areas.