Camas City Council reviewed the estimated $2 billion cost to construct a MAX light rail extension from Oregon into Clark County, and the annual estimated cost to operate and maintain light rail — $20.24 million. The need was also considered and a resolution to oppose extending light rail as part of the I-5 Bridge project was adopted by a unanimous council vote.
Historically low ridership of C-Tran Express bus service to Portland has declined due to pandemic restrictions, remote work and shifting business patterns. Currently, Route 105/105X I-5 Express to downtown Portland, Route 190 Marquam Hill Express and Route 60 Regional to Delta Park MAX station meet demand over the I-5 Bridge. On I-5 south, buses travel in shared lanes with other vehicles.
If demand increases, flexible buses or vans can be deployed as needed. TriMet forecasts for MAX ridership have been higher than actual for years. C-Tran and IBR presentations to cities don’t include bus ridership data over the I-5 Bridge. Contact your city and county council right away to oppose this bloated, unwarranted $2 billion plan.
