Pure Madnesson

In the wake of controvery over the possibility of obtaining discounted fuel from Citgo stemming from a local activist's negotiations with Hugo Chavez, Madison Metro has announced a bold new plan to cut costs. A press released issued by Metro explains, "Madison Metro has a plan to do even better than simple fuel discounts. We will eliminate the need for fuel altogether by the end of 2008."

According to Catherine Debo, head of Madison Metro, the plan still needs to pass the Transit and Parking Commission as well as the City Council. Under the new plan, the City of Madison would replace its entire existing fleet of busses, in stages over the next 3 years, with Flinstone busses. The Flinstone busses operate much like the cars in the cartoon series of the same name. No fuel is needed, as drivers would operate the busses by running with their feet. Debo says she is intrigued by the idea that busses could run on "people power" rather than traditional fuels.

Alderman Jed Sanborn, a member of the Transit and Parking Commission, claims that he favors any plan to cut costs but believes privitization of public transportation is a better option for savings. Ken Golden, another alderman on the TPC, expressed concern about the potential for worker injuries due to twisted ankles and road rash on the soles of their feet. Debo minimizes Golden's concerns, explaining, "All drivers will be required to wear protective foot wear and ankle supports. I'm told that our insurance costs may actually go down because drivers will be getting more exercise, making them healthier."

Ben Manski, the Green Party activist responsible for proposing the Chavez plan for Madison, has some experience with the Flinstone vehicles. Manski believes, "By proposing this alternative, Metro is just trying to dodge getting involved in a political controvery. A few years ago, I bought a Flinstone car in hopes of cutting my own fuel usage. Frankly, I just couldn't run fast enough to make it work on our busy roads. We'll end up firing half of Metro's drivers because they can't keep the busses running on schedule."

Mayor Dave Cieslewicz has not decided how he feels about either the Chavez or the Flinstone plan. "I'd like to study how these proposals may impact my plans for a city-wide trolley car system before I take a position. Both proposals hold some appeal, but I fear the time may not be right for either one."