To those readers who may still question the value of light rail transportation in our area, let me share a wonderful experience. Recently my wife and I spent a few days in Hillsboro, Oregon and had an opportunity to ride the MAX light rail into Portland, a distance comparable to that between Everett and Seattle.
We boarded from a large park and ride lot after only a few minutes wait. The cars are bright, clean, comfortable and air conditioned. Even after stopping at every station along the route, the ride took less than 30 minutes to the heart of downtown Portland, without a single traffic delay. We were able to enjoy a public exhibition at Pioneer Square, wander through the Saturday Market and have a leisurely lunch and do a bit of shopping before boarding the MAX for a comfortable return trip.
We did not have to fight traffic or pay for high-priced parking. The round trip was done on one ticket costing between 60 cents and $1.50 – depending on the age of the traveler. The MAX passes hundreds of new apartments, located next to its many stations. It is a commuter’s dream come true. Wake up Seattle. It is way past time to get on board.
Everett
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