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Washington, DC-- Today Congressman David Wu announced that the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has entered the Wilsonville-to-Beaverton Commuter Rail project into the final design phase. Final design is the last approval necessary for a project to receive a full funding grant agreement from the federal government.
"We are a significant step closer to getting commuter rail up and running in Washington County," said Congressman David Wu. "I am confident that FTA's approval will produce a highly successful project that will promote economic growth and lessen traffic congestion."
Since Congressman Wu has been in office he has led the effort to obtain federal funds for this project. To date he has secured $7.75 million for Commutter Rail, $3.25 million in 2004, $2.5 million in 2003, $500,000 in 2002 and $1,000,000 in 2001.
Recently Congressman Wu has successfully offered an amendment to a major transportation bill that saved the Wilsonville-to-Beaverton Commuter Rail from almost a year delay because of bureaucratic red tape.
The Wilsonville-to-Beaverton Commuter Rail project is a 14.7-mile long, five station project between Wilsonville and Beaverton. It will utilize an existing rail line and link five eastern Washington County regional and town centers. Park & Ride facilities will serve all stations except at Washington Square and at the Beaverton Transit Center. Commuter Rail will link with MAX light rail to connect its riders with Hillsboro, Portland, Gresham, and the Portland International Airport.
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