Voters of greater Portland continue to show broad willingness to pay for needed investments in the region’s transportation system, according to a survey conducted in early December.
The scientific survey by FM3 Research tested voters’ support for different combinations of ways to pay for more than $3 billion in projects and programs to address safety and traffic on some of the most dangerous roads and congested areas around the region.
The survey of more than 960 residents asked opinions about regional taxing methods including a property tax, vehicle registration fee, vehicle privilege/purchase tax, gas tax, payroll tax, corporate activities tax, business income tax, personal income tax, general sales tax, and targeted sales tax on prepared food and beverages.
Of these methods, some received support from two-thirds of the region’s voters. 55% of respondents supported a vehicle registration fee, 60% supported a business tax, and 61% supported a tax on commercial activity.
A property tax and general sales tax were less popular, generating less than 40% support. These methods are less likely to be considered for potential funding, according to Andy Shaw, Metro’s director of Government Affairs and Policy Development.
Overall, the survey makes it clear that people throughout the region want to see direct transportation improvements: improving pedestrian safety, increasing access to transit and repairing bridges. Accomplishing these goals at a regional scale will require a combination of funding sources.
“We are pleased with these results." said Shaw. "We think they show an interest in the voters for potentially making a robust investment in transportation in the region.”
Ongoing conversation addressing revenue mechanisms for potential transportation projects will continue tonight at Transportation Funding Task Force meeting.
Learn more about efforts to fund transportation improvements