Purple Line Petition on Housing, Jobs,+ - Due 10/21 10 a.m.

The following links take you to a petition and to a more detailed explanation of why I am encouraging you to sign the petition to ensure that the people who live in or near the International corridor along and near University boulevard, are not adversely affected by the purple line as to loss of housing, small businesses and jobs.  If you approve of the petition, please notify

 Zorayda Moreira <zmoreira@casamd.org>  and myself at thausner@gmail.com

We need to know by 10/21, 10 a.m., the name of your organization or your name. 

See the petition and explanation at the eh following links. 


http://tinyurl.com/casapetition

http://tinyurl.com/casafeis


I have been questioned about the State's responsibility re these issues.  Here is my response:

While the state may not be responsible from a technical viewpoint, for the impact on jobs, etc. the reality is that small businesses could be undermined during the construction period.  In Portland, the City provided very low interest loans to help the businesses survive.  I think someone needs to ensure that the residents of this area are supported in earning a living if the building of the purple line impacts them.  This maybe a county responsibility but I think CASA is justified in bringing this issue to the attention of the public.  My guess is it is part of the issues that FEIS is supposed to address.


Here is what Zorayda had to say 

My comment  is that the Purple Line is coming to the area because of the transit dependent community and it would be devastating that this transit-dependent community is displaced because of the lack of proactive planning. It is irresponsible to think of transportation, housing, economic development, and workforce development and training in silos ... this way of planning has proven ineffective and detrimental. This is not about asking the government for money, it's asking the government to plan properly and allocate/target the necessary resources, training, and programs to communities that are in need.