Senator Alvarado-Gil Turns to Public Transit for Help
Late in the evening on January 4th, 2023, during an atmospheric river storm, Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil almost made it home safely when her vehicle careened off the road, and was no longer operable. She had to be back at the Capitol early the next morning, and without another mode of transportation, she turned to the safety and reliability of public transit, which was also a source of comfort for her during a difficult childhood.
“I have personally relied on public transit to provide a source of refuge, entertainment, and transportation throughout my life,” expressed Alvarado-Gil.
As a bright young 10-year old, the Senator would turn to the safety and familiarity of local public transit not only to get to school, but also when escaping challenging situations at home. “I would ride the bus for the entire route, at which point things would have settled down at home so I could return.” The Senator explained that the bus drivers became her family, looking out for her, making sure she didn’t miss her stop and checking up on her well-being if she missed the bus. “It truly provided me with a sense of community and belonging when I needed it most.”
Fast forward to the morning of January 5th when the Senator boarded the Amador Transit bus bound for Sacramento. Alvarado-Gil explains “the warm, comforting feeling immediately returned.” The Senator was welcomed by driver Kelly Thompson, a 14-year veteran with Amador Transit. They began chatting and were joined by a self-proclaimed drifter and his dog “Ransom,” who was heading into Sacramento to do some research at the law library. The three quickly bonded and had an enlightening discussion during the 80-minute ride into the Capitol.
Thompson felt blessed to be driving a senator to work, but isn’t necessarily surprised by how fast they became friends. Echoing the Senator’s comments, Thompson stated “everyone that rides my bus is family, I look out for all of them, especially the kids. I get to know everyone’s story, and do my part to ensure they have a great experience.”
Alvarado-Gil wants everyone to know that “public transit provides a safe, clean and reliable mode of transportation. “ So, next time you need a ride don’t hesitate to jump on your local bus, you never know, you may end up sitting next to a senator.
To learn more about Senator Alvarado-Gil please go to: https://sd04.senate.ca.gov/.
Senator Alvarado-Gil represents the 4th Senate District including the Counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne.
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