If anyone recalls, BRT was an option for the Portland to Lake Oswego transit plan, but there isn't the option to cannibalize 2 lanes of traffic for dedicated lanes. A hybrid system using other technologies would work, but the Central Planners don't talk about this - it's all or nothing with them. And probably the developers who see the dedicated lines as a permanent commitment to high capacity transit that can't be changed like ordinary bus routes.
Developers do not want any risk anymore. They do not operate with a capitalist, market economy except when it's time to take the built-in profits. The risk is always borne by the public when new transit and urban renewal dollars (taxes) are being spent. This cozy relationship between developers and government Central Planners cannot happen without agreement by local elected officials, even ones who vow to fight against density. They most likely feel they must bow before Metro's authority instead of exploring how they might exercise their rights as a Home Rule government.
This article from today's Oregonian is another view of the Tigard citizen-led measure to control high capacity transit in their town.
Washington County rapid transit forum scheduled amid Tigard ballot measure battle
Oregonian, January 3, 2014
By Fenit Nirappil
An upcoming vote in Tigard has the potential to derail years of planning for beefed-up public transportation in southeast Washington County.
Amid this backdrop, Washington County Democrats are hosting a rapid transit forum with elected officials and activists in King City Wed. Jan. 8. The forum will be held 7 p.m. at the King City Club House, 15245 SW 116th Ave..
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