Whimsical transit policy: Left hand, right hand, what hand?
On Thursday, the Chronicle's Rad Sallee reported that METRO's real-estate division was about to spring into action:
The Metropolitan Transit Authority board today will consider the purchase of a former rail bed between downtown and the 610 North Loop, as well as sites for new Park & Ride lots in Katy and Pearland.
Metro plans a commuter rail line from near U.S. 290 and Hempstead Highway to a future terminal for trains and buses north of downtown, although an exact route has not been announced.
Metro spokeswoman Raequel Roberts refused Wednesday to discuss the transit agency's interest in the property or provide a map of it before today's meeting, set for 1 p.m. at 1900 Main.
On Friday, Sallee reported that METRO decided it might be worthwhile to think over the matter and talk to other local actors before barreling ahead:
The Metropolitan Transit Authority shelved a planned vote Thursday to buy a former freight rail bed for commuter rail, after learning - to board members' surprise - that the city plans a bike trail there.
Board member Rafael Ortega said news that Metro is interested in the route had "created some concern in the community." He suggested that Metro should "communicate our regret to the city of Houston and TxDOT for jumping the gun."
Chairman David Wolff said that was not necessary, but agreed that the agenda item had been premature. Metro staff will discuss the proposal with Houston officials before a vote is rescheduled, he said.
Wolff said the property, now owned by the Texas Department of Transportation and formerly by the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, was considered as a possible route from the northwest area to a planned terminal north of downtown for buses, light rail and commuter trains.
Whoops!
As noted in an earlier post, transit policy in Houston certainly does have its whimsical aspects, and this is a nice example.
We're fairly sure this planned acquisition will return to the agenda at some point, however. METRO usually is persistent about pursuing what it wants.
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 08/25/07 01:23 PM | Houston Transit | Technorati | Sphere | Comments (5)
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