In laying out his four-step plan for fixing the MBTA ought to he turn into the subsequent governor, Chris Doughty stated he was the candidate finest outfitted for the job, however stopped in need of criticizing Gov. Charlie Baker’s dealing with of the transit system.
“I would say that I would never place blame on anyone when it comes to safety and other issues,” the Wrentham businessman stated Wednesday at a press convention in entrance of the Park Street station.
“I think that when you’re in the Corner Office, you’re accountable,” the Republican added, referring to Baker. “It’s the nature of being in the Corner Office — you sort of sign up for it. And I’m ready to be counted on. I’ve been accountable my whole life.”
While Doughty wouldn’t take photographs at Baker — who defended the MBTA in an interview with reporters on Tuesday — he didn’t pull any punches when it got here to speaking about what he sees as his gubernatorial opponents’ incapacity to repair the beleaguered transit company; he stated each lack the mandatory expertise.
He stated his 30-year background in proudly owning and working a producing firm provides him an edge over his opponents, Democrat Attorney General Maura Healey and former state consultant Geoff Diehl, who he’ll face within the main.
Doughty made his remarks after he and his working mate, Kate Campanale, took the T and spoke with riders about points plaguing the system.
While they each reported their rides have been largely problem-free, Doughty made observe of some graffiti and some damaged home windows and Campanale stated some riders had talked about that they have been apprehensive about taking the subway at evening.
After decamping at Park Street station close to the Boston Common, Doughty gave a short synopsis of his preliminary plan for the MBTA, which features a deal with security, fixing the T’s funds, enhancing worker engagement, and decreasing the pink tape, the latter of which he described as making the office extra environment friendly.
For security, Doughty stated he would be certain that frequent third-party security audits are performed. He additionally needs to implement “world-class preventative maintenance systems” and worker coaching and growth packages, and take a proactive position in enhancing worker satisfaction to scale back turnover and enhance hiring.
Doughty stated that the MBTA is “saddled with $5.3 billion in debt” — he would search to fund the company’s pension system to 75%, moderately than its present 65% mark. He would additionally search to extend ridership to a minimum of 80% of pre-pandemic ranges by 2023 to extend income for the system.
He stated he would spend time with workers who restore trains and keep rail strains to enhance worker engagement and construct a “checklist culture” aimed toward making certain compliance with working and security protocols.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”