- Jan 23, 2025
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When it comes to public transport, sometimes the best decision is to let go. As Seattle grapples with the future of the South Lake Union Streetcar, a closer look reveals that persistence may not always be a virtue. For many, this streetcar has become a symbol of a costly commitment that simply isn't paying off.
Persistence has always been a value I hold dear. It's what helps us navigate life's challenges and push through tough times. But recently, I experienced a shift in my perspective that could serve as a valuable lesson for Seattle's transportation leaders.
Flashback to 1984: I was the awkward kid at Mt. Rainier Computer Camp, earning the perseverance award not for my intelligence, but for sheer tenacity. Fast forward to today, I found myself in a similar yet vastly different situation with an app called Duolingo, which I’ve used for over 500 consecutive days to learn Spanish.
Then it hit me: I’m no longer that child striving for validation. I’m an adult who deserves to prioritize my mental well-being. So, I made the choice to quit Duolingo, ending my impressive streak. Surprisingly, the world didn’t end. In fact, I felt liberated from the guilt of daily obligations.
This experience got me thinking about the South Lake Union Streetcar. Seattle has invested millions into this venture, yet only around 500 people use it daily. As costs rise, we encounter a classic case of the sunk-cost fallacy. Just because we've poured money into it doesn’t mean we should continue to do so.
According to Mike Lindblom from The Seattle Times, skepticism is growing among city leaders regarding the viability of the streetcar. Alternatives like a bus line are being suggested as smarter, more cost-effective options. However, acknowledging this would require admitting a hard truth: the streetcar has not lived up to expectations.
Sometimes, quitting isn’t a sign of failure; it’s an act of sanity. Just because you’ve invested time and resources doesn’t mean you should keep doubling down on a losing bet. Seattle doesn’t require a flashy, underused streetcar; it needs practical solutions that serve the community effectively.
It may be time to say goodbye to the South Lake Union Streetcar and redirect resources toward a solution that truly works for Seattle. Sometimes, the smartest decision is knowing when to quit, a lesson worth learning in both personal and public endeavors.
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