Key members of the GoTriangle Partners funding board have resigned or raised significant objections to the project, as proposed, which jeopardizes the ability of the organization to raise the non-federal monies necessary to apply for the Full Funding Grant next April. See application: “GoTriangle Partners…. Is currently leading a capital campaign on behalf of the D-O LRT project….”
On November 28, 2018 the Chairman of the capital campaign board resigned his position on that board stating his opposition to the project. Earlier in November another member of the Board, Brad Brinegar resigned. Although no resignation announcement has been made, Board Member Tallman Trask (Duke University Executive Vice President) is currently negotiating resolutions to major problems with the route which caused Duke University to outline, in a letter, their opposition to the project as well. In the wake of these announcements, members of the business community are either rethinking or withdrawing their support as well.
An important note on this development is that many of these problems have been known by GoTriangle for many years but are just coming to light now and only because impacted individuals are raising them. This is emblematic of the way that GoTriangle has handled this project throughout and is just one reason for concern about their ability to manage this project.
Supporting information:
Capitol Broadcasting Exec Quits Light Rail Funding Board
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article222298455.html
Duke Cannot Support Durham-Orange Light Rail without Changes
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article221964715.html