Douglas won't help pay for Tahoe shuttle

Commissioners voted 3-2 Thursday against the grant, saying they already give enough to Tahoe transit projects and don't believe the shuttle will work.

Money is being sought from Carson City, Washoe and Douglas counties to pay for the shuttle to transport lake users from remote parking areas to beaches along State Route 28. That could decrease parking along the highway's shoulders, possibly cutting down on roadside erosion and air pollution caused by auto emissions.

The shuttle started operating in 1997, and proponents say parking fees may eventually make it self-sufficient. Supporters also said it has gained acceptance despite low usage in 1997.

Commissioners Don Miner and Jacques Etchegoyhen favored the grant, but commissioners Steve Weissinger, Kelly Kite and Bernie Curtis opposed it.

Weissinger said the county already gives nearly $300,000 a year for Lake Tahoe-area transit systems. He was also skeptical of the Tahoe Transportation District, which would operate the shuttle.

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