When I was given the opportunity to represent the communities of east Multnomah County as your Metro Councilor, I had hopes that we could realize great gains through collaboration. There is a critical need for governments and business to work together to solve problems as we navigate through a complicated present into a changing future. The challenges we face transcend the cities in District 1, and collaboration and partnerships are key to achieving and sustaining prosperity.
On Aug. 9, the Metro Council unanimously endorsed the East Metro Connections Plan, moving us closer to this end. This was a collaborative effort of Gresham, Fairview, Troutdale, Wood Village, Multnomah County and Metro, and it established a shared vision for investments to set the stage for economic growth.
Many of you shared your experiences with us. You let us know what you love about East Metro and you told us what could be improved. Your input shaped the projects included in the plan. These projects will provide better access and mobility, increase safety, activate employment areas and help people find their way through and to key destinations in the area. These projects are cost-effective, can be implemented, and have generated a high degree of agreement among government, business and community leaders. Implementation of the plan will ensure that people, goods and services can move efficiently and safely within our communities and around the region.
Metro Council's confirmation of the East Metro Connections Plan follows unanimous endorsements by leaders from the four cities, county and business community. East Metro is speaking with a unified voice:
- "We will begin to see positive, real impacts in the near future in East Multnomah County as these projects are implemented."- Commissioner Diane McKeel, Multnomah County
- "We had a very diverse group on the steering committee, but we realized we pretty much had the same goals." – Carol Rulla, Coalition of Gresham Neighborhoods
- "This plan helps to ensure that this community keeps growing and prospering. This is about responsible growth to support jobs." - Travis Stovall, East Metro Economic Alliance (EMEA)
- "This is going to improve our ability to compete for transportation funds, and that is very exciting." - Councilor Lisa Barton Mullins, City of Fairview
By advocating for a common vision, we are more likely to be competitive for funds at the regional, state and federal level. Bringing new money to our area can support our historic downtowns, contribute to the development of employment land, such as Gresham Vista Business Park, and improve access to our treasured natural areas. One of my top goals as your Metro Councilor is to leverage these assets to support economic and community development. This plan does just that.
Thursday’s endorsement is an important step, but it is really just the beginning. My hope is that East Metro governments will continue working together for our shared prosperity.