Call Me a Dork

Test run heading south just past 44 Monroe Condominiums (blue/gray tower to the right) and roughly even with Orpheum Lofts (off screen to the left)

OK, so I may be a total dork but I am truly excited about the coming of the light rail.

Many blog posts say that the rail is a waste of money and “too little too late” but I think they’re wrong.

It is true that the light rail will NOT change the face of commuting here in the Valley, at least not any time soon. But it will begin to re-connect this sprawling city. And it will finally give us a focal point for the investment of time, energy, and money, something sorely missing as our city with no boudaries just grew out and out and out.

It’s my contention that all major vertical cities have geographic boundaries, usually water, that force them vertical. These boundaries not only naturally and truly limit sprawl by literally containing or preventing it but also encourage density because they offer desireable and FINITE places to live. Because people are drawn to the water it encourages building up instead of out.

We are beginning to see the same along the light rail.

New businesses are opening and people are buying condos and real estate near the tracks. With these new businesses and increased population we will see more of the same. The dynamic will feed on itself and growth and appreciation will ensue. It only make sense.

I love the idea of railing to Tempe and enjoying an ASU game or other event again. I had long ago snubbed most such activities because I didn’t like dealing with the traffic, the lack of parking, AND the idea that I couldn’t have a nip or two while partying for fear of getting a DUI or hurting somebody.

Also, (and this may be the really dorky part) being a native of Phoenix it’s a big deal to see the beginning of what all other major cities have; a transit system. I know, I know, I know, I already said that this won’t change the face of commuting but it is the first step.

At the rate we were going (no where) we would NEVER have had any sort of commuting system if it hadn’t been for this rail. It might take another twenty or thirty years but I’m hopeful that before I die I’ll see something that actually moves significant numbers of people to and from work, school, errands and socializing.

If only Scottsdale had agreed to join in…