(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash) announced that she has included a total of $30 million for Sound Transit’s University Link Light Rail extension in a key Senate funding bill.
This is great step forward for Sound Transit, University Link, and our entire region," Murray said. "By extending light rail north to the University, we’re giving residents more transportation options to address the congestion on our roads and giving people an environmentally-friendly alternative to driving."
Murray used her position as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies to add the funding to the FY 2008 appropriations bill that funds the federal Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development.
The bill passed the subcommittee today and will go before the full Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday (7/12).
In his February budget, President Bush proposed only $10 million for University Link. Murray maintained the President’s funding and then added another $20 million, bringing the total funding to $30 million for Fiscal Year 2008. The funding will help Sound Transit complete the final design and continue with property acquisitions.
University Link will extend light rail from downtown Seattle north to the University of Washington. This corridor is the most densely developed residential and employment area in the central Puget Sound region and state. University Link received the highest rating from the Federal Transit Administration.
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