The Orange Line of Trimet's light rail system opened after many years of effort on behalf of the community by volunteers, and with extensive public and private collaboration.
Today was a day to celebrate; to remember the elected officials who used their political capital to move forward a project with enormous benefits for the future while wading through a tide of negativity from those who could not grasp the vision of a community with viable transportation alternatives.
The first in the nation, the Tillikum Bridge will be open to mass transit, bikes, and pedestrians --- but NO CARS!
All day yesterday communities and neighborhoods along the light rail path decorated, preparing for the many orange parties that are taking place even as I write. Musicians, food vendors, strolling clowns and buskers mixed in with the crowds wandering through displays, games and gathering places where people rejoiced that the line is now open.
I can hardly contain my joy. It is a very happy day.
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