(Late in 2001... only some buses... only for a one-year test... service until 2am?) Okay... it's a start at least, but YAY! - For years, I've been advocating this. You'd think that to promote public safety in Boston, the public transportation system would shut down AFTER the bars close. But NOOOooooo! Until later in 2001, that seems to have been beyond comprehension by the various administrations involved (Now all we have to do is figure out when the subways can be maintained if they're being used 20 hours a day).

Formerly a 14-year Boston city resident -- most of which WITHOUT a car -- as of August, 1999, I am now a Boston-area resident WITH a car in the 'burbs. Nonetheless, whenever travel by public transportation is a practical option, I still do so. Indeed, it has been my recent experience that even by 7:00 in the morning, it is impossible to travel by car on major roads near Boston. Unfortunately, public transportation can only take you so far, and unless you can walk or afford to take a cab the rest of the distance, you must drive the whole trip. How can anyone endure this more than once and not mortally threaten the legislature to immediately terminate the "Big Dig" in favor of replacing all highway medians with rail lines?

Before continuing, it should be particularly noted that the (assumed) majority of hard-working everyday folks employed by the MBTA are greatly appreciated for putting up with all the hassles of serving the public. I see a lot of abuse dished-out by irate or just plain inconsiderate riders and motorists. I hope I've never been guilty of this, and have tried to resolve my one or two employee-related complaints with MBTA management... in writing, after time to think.

I wish it was as common practice for people to commend another company's employees for excellent work, or to alert management to your satisfaction with the system. Sometimes... just once in a while... I like to say "great job" to someone at the MBTA. I believe if everyone gets positive feedback once in a while, the complaints won't be such a problem. I won't mention names when it comes to goof-ups, but I would like to give my personal thanks for truly great and friendly assistance by Greg Kelly in the Marketing & Communications department! Thanks also to Crystal in the Customer Service Dept. for at least listening.

I also believe every effort should be made by the MBTA to continue self-improvement and expansion of services. These improvements should not be limited to big ticket expenditures, such as new vehicles. Often the Devil is in the details, as evidenced herein...

The images shown here are original, unaltered photographs taken in generally public places. All comments are strictly the personal opinion of the photographer. No photographs or comments are misleading, or known to be false.

2002: The MBTA announces its new "Customer Bill of Rights" public relations campaign.

My reaction? - Well, for starters the MBTA's promise of on-time service, backed by a guarantee offering a free ride if you are delayed over 30 minutes... doesn't help monthly pass holders one bit .

Safe service? No argument there, but I can't help but notice the complete absence of uniformed MBTA police, except for rare occasions, even in this 'post-nineleven' world.

We'll see how well the MBTA follows through with its promises over the next few months... and for how long.