Topic: Public Transit

Public transit in Porto, Portugal, has returned to using hydrogen-powered buses after a period of utilizing natural gas vehicles. This shift mirrors an earlier EU project from the early 2000s called CUTE that initially introduced hydrogen technology to the city. Observations of the new buses note they are smooth but potentially top-heavy due to roof-mounted battery systems.

An NPR report features a bus driver who describes the extreme precautions he took during the pandemic, including showering outside to avoid infecting his family. Despite the lifting of mandates, some transit workers express a continued "belief in the mask." The hosts characterize this as a shift from public health to a matter of faith or religious-like conviction.

New York City's MTA has implemented a "mask force" with conductors reading scripts every 15 minutes to mandate face coverings. The hosts mock the tone of these announcements and the distribution of free masks on subways while restaurants remain restricted.

The IPCC report's opposition to nuclear power is highlighted, with the hosts arguing it is the most efficient solution if an "existential threat" truly exists. The report instead advocates for a transition to solar, wind, and "non-motor transit" like walking and biking, while calling for net-zero emissions by 2050.

California Assemblyman Todd Gloria of San Diego has introduced legislation aimed at solving the state's affordable housing crisis by rewarding developers for building smaller, high-density units. The bill proposes a rewards program based on usable floor space for projects located near public transit hubs. The initiative seeks to maximize urban density, drawing comparisons to high-density living arrangements in China.

The LAPD and the Long Beach Sheriff's Department are increasing enforcement of a code of conduct on public transit, targeting "rude riders." Offenses include playing loud music, eating, and "manspreading"—the act of a rider taking up more than one seat. Fines for these behaviors can range from $75 to $1,000, with repeat offenders facing potential jail time or bans from the Metro system.

Rumors regarding Caitlyn Jenner potentially "de-transitioning" back to a man are discussed as a predicted publicity stunt for a future book or movie. The hosts express skepticism about the authenticity of Jenner's transition, characterizing it as a "cross-dressing exercise" played out in the media. They mention Jenner's upcoming appearance in Sports Illustrated.

A Yale study on how to prevent strangers from sitting next to you on buses or planes is discussed. While the study suggests looking busy or avoiding eye contact, the hosts propose that wearing a medical mask is the most effective deterrent. One host recounts a successful experience on a Southwest flight where a passenger used a mask to keep an adjacent seat empty.

The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system is replacing wool seats with vinyl to improve sanitation following reports of bedbugs and filth. The hosts focus on a transit official's odd use of the word "campaigning" to describe the rollout of the new seats, suggesting it reflects scripted corporate PR language.

Mother Jones reports on the expansion of TSA VIPER teams conducting unannounced security screenings at bus stations, subways, and ferries. TSA Administrator John Pistole confirmed to Congress that thousands of these screenings occur annually, including recent operations at a Des Moines Greyhound station and on San Diego trolleys.

The hosts critique the inefficiency of the US rail system, specifically the Amtrak route from the Bay Area to Seattle which averages only 39 miles per hour. They argue that doubling the speed would make rail competitive with driving and flying. The discussion also mentions the financial instability of airlines, citing the potential bankruptcy of Martin Air.