SeattleAuto.net on Prop 1 and I-985

SeattleAuto.net is not a partisan blog, but we do have opinions on matters that relate to local commute and transportation. With the current economy, climate and political state, we think an efficient transportation infrustructure is more important than ever. Here are the issues we support on November 4th:

Proposition 1: YES

Even though we’re an auto blog, we think that a vote in favor of light rail is not a vote against cars, but a vote to build much needed infrastructure.

In an ideal world, we would have enough money to pay for a new 520 bridge, widen I-5 and I-405, improve HOV implementation and get more buses on the road. Unfortunately, the fact is that we are short on money. Very short. The reason we support Proposition 1, as expensive as it might be, is because it’s the best chance we have of upgrading our infrastructure in the next 10 years.

I (Grant) drive my hybrid the majority of the time, but even my hybrid is still using gas. The fact is that gas is limited, has unstable prices and sends money overseas. While electrics are on their way, GM’s Chevy Volt is still 4 years away and has a price tag of $40,000 per vehicle. Per person, it’s far more cost and energy efficient to pay for an efficient regional light rail transit than equip families with Chevy Volts. Yes, there will be a loss of independence - which we understand quite well - but there’s a time when you just have to bite the bullet.

Nobody loves a 500 hp Viper that can tear across 520 in under 20 seconds as much as we do, but we also love the environment and our city even more. That’s why we’re supporting Prop 1.

Initiative 985: NO

While Tim Eyman might be onto something by extending the hours for the HOV lane, there’s been too many other additions tied into the initiative that make it far more than a vote about carpool lanes and freeing up traffic.

For one, the bill prevents the ability for toll revenues to be used for park and rides, buses and more importantly - light rail. Second, funds for implementing the new changes come from existing revenue streams, which mean other programs will have their budgets dipped into.

So, we agree with some aspects of I-985, such as removing art requirement budgets from transportation projects, opening HOV lanes during non-rush hours and appreciate the idea of not using bridge tolls for non-transportation projects. That said, the bill goes too far in many regards and as such, is more dangerous to implement than not.

Remember, whether you agree with us or not, please go out and vote this November 4th!