Is the new eastside line the beginning of the end for the streetcar?

The streetcar's fare is $1; TriMet's is $2.50. The streetcar's annual pass costs $150; TriMet's: $1,100. For around $2.50 each per year, the tens of thousands who carry PSU or OHSU IDs. enjoy unlimited streetcar rides. The new line's shared alignment with existing bus routes highlights this double standard, especially since streetcars cost much more to operate than buses. The absurdity is undeniable when streetcars break down and are replaced by TriMet buses. Whether riders pay $1 or $2.50 depends on whether the bus has a "streetcar replacement" sign.

R A Fontes editorial here!