Administration Gives Tentative OK To Portland's Street Car Money

GOVERNMENT 

By Kristian Foden-Vencil

Portland, OR  February 5, 2008 5:38 p.m.

The Bush administration has tentatively approved $50 million to help expand Portland’s streetcar system - if the city can show it will be cost effective. Kristian Foden-Vencil reports.

The Federal Transit Administration has announced funding for 13 projects across the nation.

Most are light-rail lines. But Portland wants to extend its streetcar line and the agency is unsure that a streetcar is as good at moving people as a light-rail line.

Sam Adams: “It is good news that the Eastside Streetcar Loop project was included in the President’s budget. What remains unclear is whether or not they’re going to apply evaluation criteria that’s really germane and applicable to streetcars.”

Adams argues that unlike light-rail, a streetcar prompts shops, offices and homes to be built along its route – meaning people don’t have to travel as far.

The mayoral candidate worries however, that Portland might have to wait for another administration to be elected, to receive the money.

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