Press Releases

SEATTLE – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) today toured the nearly-completed light rail station at the University of Washington.

Sounds Transit and local officials spoke with Congresswoman DelBene about the importance of federal funding for transportation projects in the region, including the expansion of the East Link light rail system, which will benefit Washington First District commuters.

“I’m pleased to see progress being made on this vital project. Too many of our nation’s roads and bridges are in dire need of overdue repair and maintenance. Moving toward light rail will not only help reduce traffic, it will also keep our air clean,” DelBene said. “Congress needs to prioritize a long-term transportation funding bill allowing us to get the best return on our investment.”

Sounds Transit light rail projects rely on the New Starts and Small Starts program, which DelBene has supported through the appropriations process. In less than two weeks, federal funding for road and transit programs will expire – meaning new projects such as this could never get off the ground. DelBene has called for a long-term solution that would provide economic certainty for states and municipalities investing in infrastructure, but Congress has not yet acted.

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