Seattle City Council approves tunnel plan
The vote authorizes the state Department of Transportation and the city to begin working on the deep-bore tunnel project, which is expected to cost more than $4 billion.
Under the agreement, the city will be responsible for at least $927 million of the project's costs.
For the viaduct, the council's vote means the city is ready to work with the state, and agrees the new tunnel replacement should open in 2015.
"It's nothing more than a policy statement," said council member Bruce Harrell. "It is not contractually binding in any way, so this is not the contractual document that we will base future legislation on."
The bored tunnel option would provide four lanes of traffic underground. The entire viaduct as it is today would stand until that tunnel is completed.
Mayoral candidate Mike McGinn previously vowed to stop the project if he's elected, but after Monday's vote said, "although I disagree with this decision, it will be my job to uphold and execute this agreement."
Joe Mallahan, who is running against McGinn, expressed support for the tunnel and applauded the council for moving the project forward. He also criticized his opponent for changing his mind so flippantly.
"He's changing his position, because he's seen the poll numbers and he's fighting for his political life. He's willing to say whatever he thinks will get him elected," said Mallahan.
Even though the Seattle City Council said it would not tolerate cost overruns, both candidates expressed concerns about the project's costs.
"If it ends up costing more than the current budget allows, there's a serious difference between Seattle and the state cost overruns. And where will the money come from and who will bear the burden?" McGinn said.
Mallahan, citing his business background, said if elected, he'll make sure the tunnel comes in on time and under budget.