I can't do it.

I can't bring myself to vote "yes" on Proposition 1.

Now, I've criticized sound transit measures in the past, only to turn around, hold my nose and, figuring that something is better than nothing, voted in favor of said measures.

Not this time.

Looking at a sales tax increase to pay for $18 billion in mostly light rail projects that are at least 15 years away just doesn't cut it.

I am just flat out fed up with lofty long-term projects that will do little or nothing to reduce traffic congestion now or even when those projects are actually finished.

Don't get me wrong: I believe that light rail has to be part of the answer that gets us out of nightmarish gridlock.

I just don't buy into the notion that light rail should be emphasized at the expense of just everything else.

Why do all of the so-called visionary transportation experts making these choices continue to ignore putting lots more van pools and lots more buses into play?

Where are the plans for arterial road expansion and new freeway lanes, if not new freeways?

Is there no way to plan for the future while at the same time providing at least some short term congestion relief?

Proposition 1 just doesn't cut it.

---

Have something to say to Ken? Login or signup below to post a comment. Just be sure to read the rules and keep things civil. You can also e-mail him at kenschram@komo4news.com.