[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 52 (Tuesday, April 26, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E763]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         INTRODUCTION OF PORTLAND STREETCAR TARIFF WAIVER BILL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 26, 2005

  Mr. BLUEMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing legislation that will 
waive tariffs on three new streetcars to be delivered in 2006 for the 
city of Portland's successful streetcar system. Without a domestic 
producer of compatible streetcars, it does not seem reasonable that the 
city should have to pay an additional $300,000 in tariffs.
  The Portland streetcar system has served as an important mobility 
option in circulating workers, students and visitors throughout the 
downtown area. Additionally, the system has attracted over a billion 
dollars in development along its route, linking housing, offices, 
retail, and Portland State University. Recently, the streetcar was 
extended down to the banks of the Willamette River and construction has 
already begun on a further extension to the South Waterfront 
development project being anchored by Oregon Health Sciences 
University.
  I thank the Ways and Means Committee for consideration of this 
legislation, which will continue to help improve the transportation 
options and livability of Oregonians.

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