Regular readers will recognize Bob Richardson as “Bob R.” who has provided many cogent and informative comments. I’m happy to now welcome Bob as a Portland Transport contributor! – Chris The Rose Quarter area is one of the most intense mix of transportation modes in the city of Portland. Three (soon four) MAX lines converge there, Interstate Avenue, Multnomah and Oregon streets intersect with approaches to the Steel Bridge, and there are multiple bus lines using the Rose Quarter as a transit center. Nearby, but not directly intersecting, are freight/passenger rail tracks which cross the Steel Bridge to Union Station. A complex layout of light rail “interlocks” (track switches) and traffic signals orchestrates the flow of traffic in multiple competing directions. As some transit advocates (including AORTA) have pointed out, the capacity of these interlocks constrains the potential for growth of the light rail system. With the addition of the MAX Green Line from Clackamas, the area may approach the practical limit for trains per hour of throughput within a decade. Expanding capacity beyond the current limit presents a conundrum: How do you redo this complex interchange without shutting down the current rail system, which would have drastic short term and medium term impacts on ridership? Furthermore, how can the area be configured to accommodate future proposals such as a new river crossing (bridge or tunnel) or longer trains? I propose the development of an underground station at the Rose Quarter for the Blue/Red/Green lines in a manner which presents many options for future expansion, eliminates several current conflicts, and provides greater rider convenience. Full details with pictures on the flip…