I’d like to first of all, thank the Planning Commission and the staff for all of the work they’ve done the past couple of weeks. 

The materials and presentations were very informative. The Planning Commission conducted an excellent Public Forum that helped everyone better understand the issues and various points of view. I’m looking forward to reviewing the reports from the Forum and the business meetings and Riverfront Board meeting. 

I asked the community two questions about adding a new alignment to the light rail study: first, is the idea broadly supported in the community? Second, is the idea supportive of our vision for downtown? 

Let me start with the second one first. I’m with the Planning Commission. I think that light rail on Main Street is an interesting idea, and it could be worth studying. I also agree with the Planning Commission’s position on McLoughlin: I think that’s a nonstarter for light rail. Main Street is interesting, although I’m not sure how it would be done. I think the planners need to keep working at it and Milwaukie needs to say what it’s willing to give up, because something would have to go to accommodate the train. 

The first question, however, troubles me. Like the Planning Commissioners, I’m not sure there’s broad community support for this idea. We heard a lot of people testify for it, but at least half appeared to have some affiliation with the Waldorf School. Based on past experience, I want to be careful about not discounting other points-of-view just because they aren’t currently upset or vocal. 

So I intend to ask for some more work before I’m going to make up my mind about a recommendation. And we’ve got a little more time before the next Steering Committee meeting. I think we should use it well.

Last updated: 09/26/2008

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