And The Survey Says...
4 Cities and the United Food & Commercial Workers Local 555 seek the truth...
Last week, the results of an independent survey of voters, from the Portland metro region, was published. The survey was funded by the cities of West Linn, Oregon City, Tualatin, and Wilsonville, along with the United Food & Commercial Workers Local 555. Voters from Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties were all represented.
The survey, which included multiple questions about tolling, was conducted in order to get real public opinion after an ODOT survey, in the fall of 2023, surveyed the public without any option other than to accept tolling. West Linn Mayor Rory Bialostosky called ODOT’s survey disingenuous.
Although a pain to take, surveys can be quite telling. We think you will find the results extremely interesting.
In Short
Article 1 - We have attached, below, the 2-26-24 Press Release outlining the results of the independent survey. Of all the information given, one sentiment was heard loud and clear… If it is in our backyard, we don’t want it!
When presented with the I-205 Abernethy Bridge Toll Project in Clackamas County, 53% of Multnomah County voters and 64% of Washington County voters were in opposition. After being presented with the tolling concepts on Highways 217 and 26 being studied by ODOT, 70% of Multnomah County voters and 80% of Washington County voters opposed those tolls.
Article 2 - DHM Research conducted the survey over the span of a week. The format and questions asked are laid out in the details of the attached, below, survey memo. This is definitely worth one’s time to read.
Article 3 - Seattle toll rates, as of 3-1-2024, have increased. For those traveling at peak traffic times thru the network, the fees may exceed $50 per day… or over $10K per year, according to the Clark County Today article listed below..
Remember, once tolls get turned on they will not get turned off. And the price will not likely ever go down… but it most assuredly will continue to go up.
No one wants them but they aren't willing to fight not to get them...🙄