New MAX hurts bus riders

From July 4th's Print Edition Letters to the Editor:

I cannot rejoice over the new MAX line from Clackamas Town Center to downtown because bus riders are being shortchanged.

First, TriMet cuts bus lines and frequency of service. My own line has been cut so much -- only running a few times each week day -- that it's essentially worthless. I now have to walk more than half a mile to catch a bus.

Then, TriMet downgraded the world-class transit mall by cutting the number of bus stops in half. Now, TriMet proposes to eliminate Fareless Square for bus riders but not for MAX riders. The agency is demonstrating that it considers bus riders second-class citizens.

JEANNE ROY
Southwest Portland

I agree with this person that the bus service is the least priority in TriMets eyes. They are quick to purchase new MAX trains, but lag on new bus purchases, even ones that can handle capacity on high ridership lines and rush hour runs. If it was TriMets way, MAX would be up and down every street. Lets ramp up bus service before any more MAX trains are purchased!