An agreement finalizing $1.2 billion in federal funding for Sound Transit’s Lynnwood Link light-rail extension is expected shortly following the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) submission of the full funding grant agreement (FFGA) for congressional approval.
By submitting the agreement to Congress, a 30-day review period begins and is the final step before FTA can sign and execute the agreement. Congress has already allocated a total of $200 million in funding for the project through the Capital Investment Grants program in FY 2017 and FY 2018. A signed FFGA would allow Sound Transit to begin drawing down on the previously allocated amount.
“Lynnwood Link will offer congestion-free travel to thousands of riders who currently experience some of the most brutal commutes in the nation,” said Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff. “With this critical contribution from the FTA, we are set to launch construction early next year.”
The 8.5-mile, four station Lynnwood Link light-rail extension project will connect King and Snohomish Counties, helping address concerns over increasingly bad traffic congestion and continued regional growth with an estimated one million new residents expected in Puget Sound by 2040.
The project has been bolstered by the long-time support of both Sens. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) who have been strong advocates for federal investments in Washington state infrastructure priorities.
“Christmas came early to Puget Sound with a major investment in light rail going to Snohomish County. This agreement will link commuters and businesses throughout the region, build more parking for commuters and ease traffic congestion,” said U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA).
Sen. Murray said North Sound residents were one step closer to the reality of expanded public transit options.
“Completing the Lynnwood Link light-rail extension will help commuters and consumers connect with employment and education centers, local businesses, as well as address congestion concerns,” said Sen. Murray.
