Press release:

Today the Seattle City Council voted 8-1 in favor of C.B. 117101, approving agreements between the City of Seattle and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). This action overrides the Feb. 17 Mayoral veto.

The Council vote took place on the 10-year anniversary of the Nisqually earthquake, an event that served as a wake-up call for the region to develop a replacement solution that balances the critical need for corridor safety, freight mobility and economic vitality, while providing transit growth and an opportunity for a visionary waterfront.

“Today’s actions are the outcome of a passionate debate that our region has engaged in through these past 10 years. While there have been differing opinions, the contributions of thousands of thoughtful citizens have brought us to this solution,” stated Council President Richard Conlin. “This Council is proud to confirm the City’s role and commitment to this project.”

The agreements ensure that the Seattle Department of Transportation, Seattle Public Utilities and Seattle City Light are active partners on the project while the tunnel contractor finalizes designs and refines their construction approach.

“As a community, we have arrived on a common solution and now have agreements that protect our residents and allow us to move the project forward in partnership with the neighborhoods, stakeholders, and our regional and state partners,” added Councilmember Sally J. Clark. “It is time to focus on the opportunities ahead of us while this project continues.”

“We are fully committed to safety, mobility, economic vitality, and a waterfront for all,” stated Councilmember Tom Rasmussen. “We will continue to work with our regional partners, business and community leaders and residents to ensure an accountable and transparent process. Together we will use this opportunity to make this great city even better. This historic project will help establish a visionary waterfront, shaping the future of Seattle and the region.”

Please visit the AWV and Seawall Replacement Project and Waterfront Central Planning for more information on project milestones, timeline, and oversight.