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TriMet seeking feedback on FY14 budget, and a reminder
TriMet is engaging in public outreach for its proposed 2013-14 budget, and will hold a public hearing next week. (Thankfully, TriMet has toned down the anti-union agitation somewhat in its latest publications). As previously noted–no new fare increases, some increases in service on some lines, and a re-routing of the 47 to serve Bethany and…
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TriMet Confirms That Orange Line Will Go Through Downtown After All, But Details Still Unclear
Several months ago I raised my concerns about TriMet’s decision to give the upcoming Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail line its own color (the Orange Line) rather than simply extending the Yellow Line south through downtown, allowing riders to travel from one end of the region to the other on a single train. Even with the Orange…
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Metro mulls question of TriMet takeover
The question of whether or not Metro should take over TriMet has come up again, with state Rep. Chris Gorsek (D-Troutdale) sponsors HB3316, which would mandate that Metro exercise its authority to do exactly that. Metro councilors expressed a lack of interest and doing so, and have expressed an opinion that a Metro takeover of…
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TriMet responds to article on FY14 budget, pay raise controversy
The recent article on the FY14 budget and the controversy over pay raises included therein, that many feel were not adequately disclosed to the community, has prompted a response from TriMet, disputing the claim that TriMet accounting procedures are improper. Agency spokesperson Mary Fetsch writes: TriMet’s financial statements are annually audited by Moss Adams. This…
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Streetcar faces funding issues
On the heels of an analysis that Streetcar farebox revenue was only about half what is expected, the Portland Mercury publishes an article further detailing the Streetcar’s funding woes. One interesting tidbit is that much of the revenue shortfall is not due to fare evasion, but due to TriMet passholders riding the Streetcar: According to…