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<br />> Funding of existing services is limited, and almost no <br />money lS available for expansion of transportation <br />services or for the creation and implementation of new <br />options. This funding gap limits the ability to plan and <br />think in the long range. Many public service providers <br />face this dilemma, and understand that efficiency and <br />effectiveness are key to maintaining current funding <br />levels, as well as to providing justification for <br />expanded financial support. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />Recommendations <br /> <br />> Communication to the public about available transportation <br />options needs improvement. Since misinformation about <br />current services exists, a public information program is <br />necessary. Marketing and promotion should become a focus <br />for long term improvement. <br /> <br />> A community-wide needs assessment should be conducted to <br />properly identify gaps in current programs and gaps in <br />coordination between these programs, and to identify new <br />areas of opportunity in the Elk River area. The cities <br />of Elk River and Otsego, along with Big Lake and <br />Zimmerman should consider sponsoring such an assessment. . <br /> <br />> A further study of alternatives and new options, possible <br />structure, and funding sources should be conducted by the <br />Citizens League with the help of the 2001 Steering <br />Committee. <br /> <br />> Options for evening and weekend needs should be improved. <br />Organizations involved with seniors and their activities <br />should conduct a joint study to identify solutions. <br /> <br />> Transportation should be viewed as a critical component of <br />community development plans by local units of government, <br />and should be specifically included in Comprehensive Long <br />Range Plans. This transportation component should include <br />alternative modes of transportation including bike, <br />pedestrian, and future public modes such as buses or other <br />vehicles. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />4 <br />