On Nov. 4 our region will have the chance to Vote Yes for Mass Transit Now, which will provide real solutions to high gas prices, gridlock and global warming. We are enthusiastic supporters of Proposition 1, which will provide short-term solutions through increasing express bus service while preparing for the future by extending our investment in light rail.

This regional network will be able to carry more than 1 million passengers each day, and the package will save the region an estimated $41 million in fuel every year. All of this will cost just $69 per adult each year - about the price of a single tank of gas.

Many of us are concerned about the growing threat of global warming pollutants and our region's ever-increasing dependency on the automobile and fossil fuels. There is only one-way to combat this growing threat to our health and environment: provide real options to get people out of their cars. By giving commuters more mass transit options, Proposition 1 would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 99,550 metric tons of CO2 each year.

That's good news for us, and for more than a million people expected to move here in the next two decades. In fact, when you consider population forecasts, our roads will only become more congested, and our commutes more frustrating. We cannot simply lay more asphalt, build more freeways, and put more cars on the streets. We need to continue building a mass transit system of buses, commuter rail and light rail so our future won't get stuck in traffic. We cannot afford to wait another 40 years. We need to vote Yes for Proposition 1 on Nov. 4.

Your help is vital to ensure Proposition 1 is successful this year. Please visit www.masstransitnow.org to find out how you can help, and consider giving $69 to support Mass Transit Now.

Remember, Proposition 1 is a top priority but you will find it at the bottom of your ballot.

Greg Nickels

Mayor

Dow Constantine

King County Council

Larry Phillips

King County Council