Mark Trahant: An important vote for Seattle

Monday, February 26, 2007  

"It's easy to dismiss the entire decision-making process about replacing the Alaskan Way Viaduct. Nearly everyone I talk to says they are frustrated by where we are: We haven't arrived at a decision, we're in a state of perpetual delay and we remain as divided as ever about what to do.

But this is nothing more than a long gray Seattle day. Even when it's dark, we know that somewhere out there there's that ray of light, that glimmer of possibility. This is the time to be optimistic for what Seattle can do.

Start by rethinking the March 13 advisory election. This ballot is not an expensive opinion poll; it's a real vote with consequences.

If voters say yes to Measure 2, the option to build what is essentially a freeway along the waterfront will end the debate. It will change the narrative because there will be voter consent for the massive project that will tie up traffic for years to come. Instead of worrying about process, we will wonder why the actual planning and construction takes so dang long.

This vote also matters if Seattle says no to both measures. It sends a strong signal that we want more. And just what is more?"

Get the Story:
Viaduct needs a merging of our minds (The Seattle Post-Intelligencer 2/25)

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