Join us this Sunday, July 16th at 4pm for Greater Greater Portland, a production of Portland Radio Project, diving deep into the issues involving the Portland Metro Region. Listen live at 99.1 FM in the heart of Portland – or online anywhere at PRP.fm.

In this episode, Xavier, Bradley, and Jenna discuss the FX 2 (Frequent Express Service), an “enhanced” transit system and replacement for the line 2 between Downtown Portland and Gresham. This new line promised room for 60% more riders, more frequent service, all-door boarding, and designated bus lanes to avoid congestion. $175 million was spent on this service, which opened last fall.

It was enough to attract a recent protest lead by Portland-based activist Randy Philbrick, with Philbrick believing PBOT was paving the way for the “war on cars.” Drivers parked in the new bus lanes, bike lanes, and the median on Division between SE 112th and 122nd.

The hosts then bring up points on why the city felt this project was necessary, its initial goals, problems with the implementation, and its overall benefits.

Plus, Xavier and Bradley tell of their experience being the FX 2’s first riders on opening day.

 

Sources

Introducing Frequent Express – Trimet

Organizer of ‘park in’ protest wants drivers to block bus and bike lanes on Division – Bike Portland

 

Researched, written and hosted by Xavier D. Stickler and Bradley Bondy

Produced, edited, and co-hosted by Jenna Deml

Jenna Deml
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