Statement from Governor Gregoire Regarding WSDOT Hybrid Tunnel Review

For Immediate Release: February 13, 2007

OLYMPIA � Governor Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement in response to the Washington State Department of Transportation technical review memo:

�As I said in December when we released the Findings, safety must come first � we need to take the Alaskan Way Viaduct down before it comes down. I also said that to do nothing is not an option.

�With the response from the DOT, it is clear that the electorate in Seattle will be presented a ballot with only one option that works.

�The DOT review has shown that the hybrid tunnel proposal does not meet state and federal safety standards. Furthermore, an accident where people could not escape this tunnel could prove catastrophic. To move forward with that option would simply be irresponsible.

�I appreciate the value of the Seattle waterfront and recognize that the project design must be mindful of the principles of the community. Today we need to move forward with the one option that meets safety standards and is fiscally responsible: the elevated structure.

�We need to improve the architectural design to better adapt to the City�s urban waterfront environment. We also need to work with King County Metro and Sound Transit officials to maximize transit. I ask the City, County, elected officials, community leaders and citizens to come together so that we can move forward to ensure public safety.

�Again, doing nothing is not an option. We must do everything we can to see to it that we address this critical public safety issue in a timely manner.

�Today we must move forward.�

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