FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 24, 2007
Contact: Rick Olson, 206-587-5060, rolson@psrc.org

SEATTLE—  The Puget Sound Regional Council performed a robust review and technical analysis of Sound Transit's Phase 2 plan (ST2) and today determined that ST2 is in conformity with the policies contained in Destination 2030 and VISION 2020, the central Puget Sound region's long range growth and transportation plans. The PSRC's determination of conformity with the region's transportation plan is required by state law for ST2 to move forward.

The PSRC's Executive Board's unanimous vote today represents final approval by PSRC of ST2's conformity with the region's long range plan and the policies contained within them. More information on the PSRC's review is available on line at: www.psrc.org/boards/execbd/ebcover.htm (agenda item 8b).

The Sound Transit 2 Plan's 50 miles of light rail expansions add service northward from the University of Washington to Northgate, Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood and the 164th Street/Ash Way area of Snohomish County. To the south the system would extend through Des Moines, Federal Way and Fife to the Tacoma Dome, connecting with the existing Tacoma Link light rail system. A light rail extension across Lake Washington would serve Mercer Island, Bellevue and Redmond's Overlake/Microsoft area. The plan also includes enhancements to current commuter rail stations, parking availability, and enhanced regional express bus service. The Sound Transit 2 Plan significantly contributes to implementing the region's growth, transportation and economic development plans.

PSRC develops policies and coordinates decisions about regional growth and transportation planning in King, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties. The Council is composed of over 80 county, city, port, transit, tribal and state agencies serving the region. It coordinates the distribution of about $160 million in Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration funds each year. PSRC sets priorities and evaluates the most efficient ways to target those funds to support state and local transportation and growth management plans.

Title VI Notice: PSRC fully complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related statutes and regulations in all programs and activities. For more information, or to obtain a Title VI Complaint Form, contact PSRC at 206-587-4819 or see http://www.psrc.org/about/titlevi/index.htm.