Written by I think it is smart to keep these tracks in place… at least until it is very clear what the long-term future of this corridor is. So I was glad to see the tracks will remain.
(As a reminder, the tracks will still be cut at I-405 in South Bellevue, where the Wilburton Crossing used to carry trains over the freeway.)
I’ll be curious to see…
In a few years, when we decide to get a train from Renton to Bellevue, will the same people that supported the helicopter try to stop the train?
In the interim, can we lay a boardwalk over the tracks? I’m guessing that we’d have to fence it to keep stupid people from falling off, but laying a boardwalk would be cheap – probably on $10 per linear foot if you didn’t have to fence it.
Re: I’ll be curious to see…
Yes they will try to stop it… because they’re content to let upper Kennydale shoulder the burden and impact of increased noise, affected air quality, and dropped housing values when 405 gets widened.
Re: I’ll be curious to see…
The new 405 is rumored to not have a noise barrier on significant portions going through Renton. I live about a mile from it – and it’s still at 42db. I’d have to live next to it!
Mercer Island got I-90 buried under a tunnel – why can’t we get some love?
Re: I’ll be curious to see…
Ahem..
I’d hate to have to live next it it!
Re: I’ll be curious to see…
I believe I-90 on MI was federally funded and had a politically saavy resident (perhaps even a former mayor or congressperson) who knew who’s chain to yank to make that happen.
Renton’s elected officials have been in agreement with the way the plans have unfolded thus far sans lids.