In a recent editorial in the Seattle P-I, a writer slams Kemper Freeman’s viewpoint on not supporting the mass transit initiative for a light rail system, which is currently proposed to go through Bellevue.
The writer argues that who is Kemper Freeman to be speaking on this issue when he has not personally been one waiting for buses in traffic or crammed into a crowded bus during rush hour.
Freeman has notoriously opposed the transit plan and spent thousands of dollars to counter efforts over the years. He has publicly stated in the past that he thinks much better use could be made of the millions of dollars that would be put into this initiative.
What are your thoughts? Do you oppose or support the transit proposal?
Leave your thoughts in the comment section.
The transit plan seems like a great idea. But I wouldn’t put the blame on Kemper alone it’s failure to pass. I’ve lived around here long enough to know that our voters won’t approve any transit improvements no matter how sensible.
I agree with Kemper’s stance on vetoing the transit plan. I think something better can created.
Having said that, I’d like for him to propose something.
I’m all for the transit plan! I cant wait for us to spend tens of billions of dollars over 30 years to build a system that will carry the same number of transit riders that use the bus system now!!
Kemper has proposed something, it’s basically to build more roads.
I don’t want to live in LA…bring on the rails.
Kemper has done some real good for Bellevue over the years, but on this he’s a dinosaur. Light rail, or any reliable mass transit system would greatly improve Bellevue and make it even better.
Light rail is something that people of all economic status levels will ride at various times. Buses get stuck in traffic, or detoured.
The cost is going to be expensive. The longer we wait the more it will be. The alternatives will cost more.
I voted for the transportation package last year, and will vote for it again this year.
It’s been awhile since I’ve posted on here but that’s mainly because I’ve been without a stable internet connection these past few months!
I love that they ran this editorial… it’s about time someone brings this into light! Kemper comes into the store plenty.. maybe I can convince him and his wife:P
The transit plan is really really great except for one HUGE thing.
The light rail through downtown is surface or elevated. (ELEVATED??WTF? ABSOLUTELY NOT GONNA LET THAT HAPPEN THROUGH DOWNTOWN BELLEVUE!!)
Kemper Freeman should spend his time pushing for a tunnel like was talked about for so long. it would be great for downtown.