Re: “From Deadmond to Redmond, light rail transforms a suburb to a city” (Could 4, Native Information):
The article paints an optimistic image of Redmond’s future with gentle rail. With a mean of 11 crashes per yr on Redmond Means, I believe safer transit is overdue. As a College of Washington scholar residing within the College District of Seattle with no automotive, I understand how laborious it’s to seek out reasonably priced housing close to faculty or work. Mild rail helps, however it doesn’t repair every part.
The article notes that 700 individuals utilized for 21 “reasonably priced” items beginning at $1,091. Even that’s laborious to handle on a part-time revenue whereas making an attempt to remain in class. With out extra choices, college students and low-income staff face lengthy commutes, packed trains and missed alternatives.
Creator and activist Jane Jacobs warned that metropolis planning typically ignores lived expertise. Redmond dangers doing the identical by celebrating progress whereas providing too little assist to these most impacted.
Deeply reasonably priced housing should be tied to future transit. If gentle rail goes to attach us, it must serve all of us.
Alex Mendoza, Seattle
