News & Views of Phillips Since 1976
Monday December 22nd 2025
Metro Transit
By JOHN CHARLES WILSON
Even though I normally write about schedule and routing issues, there is little going on on that front this month. However, I”™ve gotten a call and an email about bus stop and infrastructure issues, which gives me material for this month”™s column.
Last year, Route 2 got the “Better Bus Route” treatment. This consists of making the stops farther apart and putting shelters and benches at more of them. The idea is to make the bus go faster and give riders a better experience. This works to a point, but transit agencies need to be cognizant of people who have a hard time walking when they decide where to place stops.
Traditionally, bus stops were placed at every inter-section, regardless of the length of the blocks. In the Twin Cities, blocks are traditionally 1/16 of a mile by 1/8 of a mile. On the few routes left with the traditional stop pattern on the 1/16 mile blocks, the close stop spacing appears ridiculous to some.
Modern “best practices” are to have bus stops 1/4 mile apart: four short blocks or two long ones. For people with normal mobility, this is a good balance between bus speed and stop closeness to destination.… Read the rest “Metro Transit”
February Library News
By CARZ NELSON
For updated information on Hennepin County Library services during the Coronavirus Pandemic, visit www.hclib.org. All information is accurate as of January 15 2021.
PROGRAMS FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
This February HCLib is hosting virtual programs for Black history month, in partnership with the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum & Gallery (MAAHMG). In addition to films that address the arts in social justice movements, there will be panels with community leaders.
LIBRARY UPDATES:
East Lake Library Grab&Go
East Lake Library, located at 2727 E. Lake St., reopened on December 27. The building was damaged during the uprising and had been closed for rehab and repair. The library is now available for Grab and Go service
Sunday 12-5 PM; Mon, Tues, Thurs 9 AM to 5 PM Wednesday 12-8 PM.
Franklin Library
1413 E Franklin Ave., is open for computer use only. Call (612) 543-6925 to make an appointment. The building will remain locked, but staff will let you in at your appointment time. Masks are required and will be provided if you do not bring one. Because of social distancing, staff will be unable to offer computer assistance. You will have access to a desktop computer, Internet, and printing.… Read the rest “February Library News”
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