Keep 'Crime Train' Out, Businesses Say
POSTED: 7:34 pm PST January 17,
2008
UPDATED: 6:18 am PST January 18,
2008
VANCOUVER, Wash. -- A sign in the window of Harry's Lawn and Power Equipment store says it all: "Keep The Crime Train Off Main."Some Vancouver business owners are making their pitch to keep the MAX light rail service from coming to Main Street.Business owners feel a MAX line doesn't belong in the Main Street area. They said there isn't enough room for light rail, cars, pedestrians and bicycles on the small street.They also cite reports of increased gang fights and drug use at MAX stops across the river in Portland, Gresham and Hillsboro."Crime is a huge factor," said business manager John Wallum. "But I don't think crime is as much of a factor as TriMet's refusal to admit they have a problem with crime."Managers said other businesses had similar signs as the one posted in Harry's Lawn and Power Equipment store, but took them down after negative customer comments.Wallum and business owner Judy Schumacher plan to start a petition against the MAX line on Main Street. They may also hold some protests with picket signs in the future.They said they'll turn their petition in to the Columbia River Crossing Task Force, which is accepting public input and will ultimately make the decision.
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