|
|
|
|
|
|
Nov. 13, 2003
Congressional committee earmarks more than $100 million
for King County transportation improvements
A joint congressional conference committee has approved 15 transportation projects totaling
$106 million for King County. As part of that package, King County’s Department of
Transportation will receive a $13.1 million appropriation to support transportation improvements such as the
purchase of new King County Metro Transit hybrid electric buses, countywide signal synchronization projects and the replacement of the South Park Bridge.
“I would like to thank Senator Patty Murray (external link)
and other members of our congressional delegation for their continued commitment to support these transportation improvements that
are so vital to the future of our region,” King County Executive Ron Sims said. “This funding is particularly important in light of the revenue losses we currently face in transportation. Any federal investment that enables this region to move ahead with some improvements is greatly appreciated, especially during these times.”
The appropriation earmarks $5 million to help support the purchase of more than 200 new
hybrid articulated buses beginning in 2004. Each bus will
carry up to 60 passengers while emitting fewer pollutants than any comparable transit fleet anywhere in the world. In
King County, it will mean the linking of cleaner air with efficient transit operations that will cost up to 50 percent
less to run than the agency’s current dual-mode fleet of buses. The clean air buses will also accommodate the
operation of both buses and light rail in the downtown Seattle tunnel.
The measure also sets aside $1.5 million to synchronize signals in urban areas throughout King County. This work will improve traffic flow in key corridors clogged by local congestion. An additional $2 million will help keep replacement work moving on the South Park Bridge in the Duwamish industrial area.
An additional $3.6 million has been approved for the construction of a transit center/park-and-ride garage on Seattle’s First Hill as part of Swedish Hospital’s expansion of its Providence Campus. Another $1 million will provide partial funding for the continuation of passenger only service between Vashon Island and downtown Seattle.
This funding is part of a larger appropriations package totaling $106 million for projects in King County. Other projects receiving funding include money for
Sound Transit (external link) light rail and corridor improvements on I-405.
The appropriation now goes to the full U.S. House and Senate for final passage, which is expected to occur within a few days. King County expects to begin receiving these transportation revenues early next year.
Updated: Nov. 13, 2003
Executive's news Executive's site map | E-mail the Executive By visiting this and other King County web pages, you expressly agree to be bound by terms and conditions of the site. The details. |
|