Repositioning a business as a consumer destination can change an entire city, says Jon Schallert, nationally known marketing coach for independent business, retail and service providers. Business and property owners driving the revitalization of the region's downtowns and main streets spent a morning with Schallert as part of Metro's Get Centered! series to learn how to attract customers to their store – and community.

Metro was reconsidering the land use final order after Columbia River Crossing opponents successfully argued that Metro overstepped its bounds in approving the project beyond the urban growth boundary. Their appeals on other matters were rejected by state regulators and the Oregon Supreme Court.

Metro councilors Kathryn Harrington and Carl Hosticka joined city councilors and planning commissioners from Beaverton and Tigard in a joint meeting Tuesday afternoon at the Beaverton Library, to talk about Metro's Climate Smart Communities project and other planning endeavors in Washington County.

In coming months, the Oregon Washington state transportation commissions will consider creation of an advisory committee that would recommend toll pricing on the $3.6 billion project, Metro policy advisor Andy Cotugno told members of the Metro Council during Tuesday's work session.

Convention visitors could be issued passes if Free Rail Zone is eliminated

A comprehensive package of reforms – ranging from a revised benefits package for union employees to more sidewalks near transit service – are needed to help the region's main transit service head off future budget problems, TriMet's general manager said Tuesday.

The Metro Council will take yet another look at the Columbia River Crossing next week, with a scheduled vote on the land use approval for the massive transportation project.

First budget review for new Metro chief operating officer Martha Bennett calls for agency's overall operations spending to decrease by 2 percent. The planning cuts partially reflect a change in that department's focus.

Don’t worry if you missed the March 14 open house for East Metro Connections Plan. It’s not too late to help shape future transportation investments in Gresham, Fairview, Troutdale, Wood Village and Multnomah County.

Metro posted 10 grey-and-green demonstration signs along Fanno Creek Trail recently — the beta version of signage the regional government plans to post along The Intertwine network of trails, parks and natural areas.

ODOT is closing Highway 213 near Metro South from March 22-27, and garbage and recycling customers are encouraged to take loads to Metro Central during the closure.