John McDonald
Council - District 4
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Q1 A city to learn from
What city has an approach to transportation that Portland should learn from? What specific policies, funding, design, etc., could be adopted to work here?
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
More water taxis, turning streets into pedestrian only walkways for special events, designated scooter stations, light rail with fully grade-separated tracks and gates on all stations.
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Q2 Got it right, got it wrong
What is one specific Portland transportation project (built, abandoned, under construction, or proposed) that you think Portland got right, and one that Portland got wrong?
The Tilikum Bridge was a big win. It is a prime example of the city's commitment to all forms of movement. Failing to modernize Burnside Street on the westside (proper road resurfacing that goes beyond merely filling potholes, ADA sidewalk and crosswalk access, lane re-evaluations) is a missed opportunity.
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Q3 Progress on biking, walking & safety
Is Portland making progress on getting more people biking and walking, and on making streets safer? What do you think is behind that trajectory?
It's getting better. Closing some of the Max stations downtown helps get people walking more. Promoting the Springwater Corridor is always a good idea. Keeping bike paths clear of homeless camps is very important.
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Q4 How they get around
How do you actually get around Portland day-to-day? Commuting, errands, evening plans, etc. What is the last trip you took by bike or transit, and what's stopping you from doing more of your trips that way?
I live in a one car household. I use public transit for most of my trips and walk and bicycle a lot. Portland's transit system was a major factor in choosing to live here.