Light Rail Extension Plan Approved in Portland

"Portland's elected leaders unanimously threw their support Thursday behind a proposed 12-mile light-rail extension from downtown to Bridgeport Village," reports Andrew Theen.

"The estimated $2.6 billion to $2.9 billion project would give passengers a 30-minute ride between downtown and the suburban shopping center by 2027," adds Theen.

The Southwest Corridor plan includes 13 stations, seven park and ride facilities, "miles of sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, bike lanes and a dramatic overhaul for how motorists get to and from the Ross Island Bridge." Development along the route could be aided by a $652.8 million housing bond under consideration by voters on Tuesday, as well.

The city must decide how much of the total cost it will pay on its own, but the extension is expected to be a centerpiece of a 2020 regional transportation bond.