September 1997

Being a citizen of Revere has its advantages when you talk about commuting into our big sister, otherwise known as Boston. We, like our fellow surrounding towns have the benefit of not having to travel too far to get to our business destination. If you sleep a little bit later each day, at least you know that you won't have to rush too quickly to get to work.

Hard to believe, but certain cities now have the extra added benefit of actually saving a few dollars in the process. Some tolls have come down, but on the other hand, prices have gone up. It's a double-edged sword. Take it away, but make them pay somewhere else down the line.

It isn't fair.

I think that a compromise is in order.

The purveyor of the local tunnel system, otherwise known as the Mass. Turnpike, has instituted a sticker campaign that allows residents of both East Boston and Chelsea to cross both the Mystic Bridge and the tunnels for free, (after, the catch-22 of paying for a monthly sticker is established, that is!)

This method can work here in Revere too. After all, if you look at a map, we are just as close to Boston as these places are. I would like to know why we are shut out, and, who makes the final decision as to who is eligible. There is no reason in the world to believe that Revere could not become involved in this type of thing, that would make the commute a little bit easier, even if the payment method has to change. In the long run, we would save a little time and effort, and benefit in the pocket book as well. This is an option that deserves some attention.

It is an election year. Instead of the usual business as usual, our local pols should get on the bandwagon and push for legislation to get Revere a fairer shake when we travel to the Hub. To be perfectly truthful, people from all over have the right to use our beach and not pay. Why shouldn't we have the same situation, instead of having to pay to go into the city?

I know if I was running for office what my campaign agenda would be.