The Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council (RTC) has passed a resolution recommending that the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBR) extend light rail to Library Square in Vancouver. This decision aligns with previous resolutions by the Vancouver City Council and the C-TRAN Board of Directors.
Challenges in Securing Specific Language
Despite this endorsement, Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle’s attempt to secure specific language in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) amendment was unsuccessful. The mayor sought assurances in writing that light rail would extend to Library Square, but her proposal was voted down 12-2 by the RTC, with even her close allies opposing the amendment.
The current TIP language calls for a design of light rail transit elements both north and south of the Columbia River bridge replacement. Mayor McEnerny-Ogle wanted this to specify a route from the Expo Center in Portland to Library Square, but RTC members were concerned about potential delays in federal funding decisions.
Funding and Design Concerns
IBR leader Carley Francis emphasized that extending light rail to Library Square would require a new design and potentially more funding, as the light rail and interstate projects are interconnected. Any changes to the TIP could delay the federal government’s Record of Decision, risking allocated funding.
Francis assured the RTC that extending light rail to Library Square remains a goal, but it must be part of a phased approach due to current funding limitations. The first phase focuses on replacing the bridge and ending light rail at the Waterfront Station.
Financial Implications for Smaller Cities
During the meeting, a proposal to exempt smaller cities in Clark County from financial obligations related to light rail was narrowly defeated. Mahsa Eshghi, representing Camas, argued that light rail does not benefit her community and sought to exclude small cities from capital and operational costs. The motion failed 7-6, with two abstentions.
Those opposing the exemption included Mayor McEnerny-Ogle, Erik Paulsen of Vancouver, and representatives from Clark County and the Ports of Vancouver/Ridgefield/Camas-Washougal, among others.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
