For Immediate Release:

Wednesday, January 15, 2003

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) -- U.S. Senator Patty Murray today applauded an agreement between the Port of Seattle and Sound Transit that will pave the way for a light rail connection between downtown Seattle and Sea-Tac International Airport.

The light rail route will connect two vital economic centers and provide easy airport access for Seattle residents.

"Today's announcement by the Port of Seattle and Sound Transit is great news for the Puget Sound region. This connection will make this desperately needed transit system even more viable by connecting downtown Seattle to Sea-Tac Airport," Senator Murray said.

The Sound Transit Board has authorized $10 million to design the light rail extension to Sea-Tac, and the Port of Seattle Commission has authorized $10.6 million to develop a Comprehensive Development Plan for the Sea-Tac Airport North End Development program. The light rail line is expected to open in 2009.