Gov. Gregoire's statement on Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement approval

For Immediate Release: April 23, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire released the following statement today on House passage of legislation for the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement:

�I congratulate the House on their decision to support the bored tunnel replacement for the Alaskan Way Viaduct. I particularly want to commend Transportation committee chairperson, Judy Clibborn for her leadership and Speaker Frank Chopp for his willingness to advance the option that best meets the needs of our state.

�I must also applaud the extraordinary amount of hard work put in by a variety of elected, labor and business leaders, neighborhood groups and key stakeholders that reviewed years of research, analysis and creative approaches and garnered support for the bored tunnel option.

�Lawmakers can be proud of this decision to improve public safety, keep a route open for traffic during construction, and generate thousands of new family-wage jobs in the Puget Sound region.

�This viaduct replacement legislation accomplishes one of two important go-home transportation issues. I now encourage the Senate and House to pass the bond legislation needed to ensure funding to replace the aging state Route 520 bridge. Building a deep bored tunnel and upgrading SR 520 will support a strong economy today and in the future.�

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