|
Recent Progress
WSDOT has developed a phased plan for the project using existing state funds. Phase 1 will construct improvements that will allow Amtrak Cascades trains to use the bypass route without being delayed by freight or Sounder commuter trains. This will also reduce travel times between Seattle/Tacoma and Portland by six minutes. In the 2006 Supplemental budget, the Washington State Legislature moved project funds from the 2009-2011 and 2011-2013 biennia to 2007-2009 so that WSDOT and Sound Transit can coordinate the design and construct the rail line at the same time and maximize the value of public funds. WSDOT began this effort and has initiated Pre-Construction Engineering and environmental documentation.
The department is seeking to advance more funds for Pre-construction Engineering in the current biennium, making the total 2005-2007 biennium budget $5.64 million for this project. This will allow continued coordination with Sound Transit, guarantee the construction of the WSDOT project is completed prior to Sound Transit starting service to Lake wood, and possibly reduce costs of both projects.
Because of the delay of the “Everett - Delta Jct. Curve Realignments and Delta Yard Storage Tracks” project in the current 2005-2007 biennium, the department has proposed to advance $2.965 million in 2003 “Nickel” funds for this project from the 2007-2009 biennium.
In addition, the delay of the “Chehalis Jct. to Blakeslee Jct.” project, the deletion of the “Mukilteo Temporary Sounder Station” project, and through adjustments to the budget from “Swift Customs Facility Capacity Improvements” project, the department also proposes to advance $900,000 in 2005 Transportation Partnership funds for this project from the 2007-2009 biennium.
If the funds are not advanced, the beginning of construction will de delayed by 6 to 12 months. These actions require approval by the Office of Financial Management.
|