Council News Release

Councilmember Tim Burgess
Councilmember Sally J. Clark
Council President Richard Conlin
Councilmember Jan Drago
Councilmember Jean Godden
Councilmember Bruce Harrell
Councilmember Nick Licata
Councilmember Richard McIver
Councilmember Tom Rasmussen

Council authorizes agreement with state for Viaduct replacement
City leaders support moving forward with deep bore tunnel project

SEATTLE – Today, the Seattle City Council voted unanimously to approve a Memorandum of Agreement between the Washington Department of Transportation and the city, authorizing both parties to move forward with the Alaskan Way Viaduct deep bored tunnel and Seawall Replacement.

This agreement marks the fourth in a series of contracts for the project. In September, the Council approved three contracts with the state that authorized more than $480 million in state funds to be used for reconfiguring the south portion of the Viaduct.

“We’ve reached agreement with the state and we will continue moving forward,” said Councilmember Jan Drago, chair of the Transportation Committee. “The citizens of Seattle deserve more than process, they deserve progress that brings them a vibrant waterfront and a safe, reliable transportation system.”

The agreement authorized today outlines the city and state’s funding and construction responsibilities and outlines Seattle’s $927 million obligation to the project set for completion in 2018.

Last Friday, the Council reviewed and discussed a variety of possible funding sources for the project, including an increase in the Commercial Parking tax and a new Transportation Benefit District to collect vehicle license fees. The Council is expected to act on proposed funding options in 2010.

“The viaduct replacement will provide safe, effective transportation solutions that our region desperately needs,” said Council President Richard Conlin. “By opening up our waterfront, Seattle will also create new opportunities for local businesses and tourism, enhancing the attraction of Seattle and Elliot Bay as a signature destination for residents and tourists.”

Council meetings are cablecast live on Seattle Channel 21 and Webcast live on the City Council’s website at http://www.seattle.gov/council/. Copies of legislation, archives of previous meetings, and news releases are available on http://www.seattle.gov/council/. Follow the Council on Twitter at twitter.com and on Facebook at Seattle City Council.