As discussions about the future of the Interstate 5 Bridge replacement continue, Clark County resident and automotive expert Kirk VanGelder argues that autonomous vehicles will offer better service for taxpayers than a costly light rail extension. With fully driverless technology expected to arrive in the early 2030s, many are rethinking how they’d like to travel. What’s your pick?
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An alternative to light rail
Kirk VanGelder, a local expert in automotive technology, believes autonomous vehicles will make light rail obsolete and should be the focus of future transit investments.
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Also read:
- Opinion: Portland’s War on Cars Part 4 – A smarter automobile strategy to end gridlock
O’Toole argues fuel wasted in Portland-area congestion has sextupled since 1982, generating 250,000 tons of extra greenhouse gases annually. - Opinion: Transit ridership trends are dismal but regional plans are oblivious
Puget Sound transit passenger-miles fell 31% from 2015 to 2024 despite a half-million-resident population increase. - Interstate Bridge Replacement Program seeks qualified firms for bridge replacement contract
The CRBR project is backed by $5.7 billion from state funds, federal grants, and future tolling. - Opinion: Bankrupt – A $3.5 billion Rose Quarter Freeway widening project
Joe Cortright argues ODOT’s Rose Quarter project has grown from a $450M approval to a $3.5B estimate, with a $2B funding gap. - Opinion: Portland’s War on Cars 3 – Ending the war on automobiles
O’Toole argues Portland should add toll lanes, fix safety hazards, and redesign TriMet routes to end its anti-auto policies.
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