FTA allocates Lynnwood Link funds; FFGA could come by end of year
Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
Sound Transit plans major work on light rail bridge over I-5 this weekend.
Sound Transit
Sound Transit says the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has allocated $100 million in FY 2018 capital investment grant funding for the Lynnwood Link light-rail extension.
The $100 million in FY 2018 funding for Lynnwood Link follows $100 million in FY 2017 funding that was appropriated by Congress. The FTA and Sound Transit must finalize the full funding grant agreement (FFGA) before the agency can access these first two installments of the $1.17 billion grant.
“I was thrilled to receive a call from FTA Acting Administrator Jane Williams to discuss this allocation and the remaining steps to complete the FFGA by the end of the year,” said Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff. “We could not be more grateful for the administration’s support and look forward to continuing our strong partnership.”
The project plans to extend light rail 8.5 miles between Lynnwood and Northgate in the North Sound region of the Seattle area. The extension is scheduled to open in 2024 and provide frequent and reliable service between south Snohomish County and the University of Washington, downtown Seattle, the Eastside and Sea-Tac Airport.
“This is a very positive step toward securing the $1.17 billion full funding grant agreement we need to start building Lynnwood Link next year,” said Sound Transit Board Chair and Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “Residents across our region are urgently awaiting transportation relief and are making historic investments in Lynnwood Link and other transit infrastructure.”
Securing funding for the extension has been the topic of heavy stumping by members of the Washington state congressional delegation who participated in project tours and letter writing campaigns.
“After urging President Trump’s Department of Transportation for months to honor Congress’ intent to strengthen investments in transportation projects like the Lynnwood Link, I’m very pleased to see Secretary Chao and the Federal Transit Administration follow through on their commitment and release these funds to support this critical project for local families, workers, and businesses,” said Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA).
