The Magnolia Community Club does not want the Mercer Two Way project to be funded with federal stimulus funds unless it can be shown to improve travel times between 15th Ave West and Interstate 5. In an email sent to the Puget Sound Regional Council, Thomas Tanner from the MCC board of directors says there is no evidence of travel time improvement.
The only technical report produced by the City of Seattle through an independent consultant concludes that the project does not improve travel times or reduce traffic congestion. In fact, the report concludes on some paths through the Mercer corridor, the proposed project would actually increase travel times and congestion…. we strongly believe it to be an unwise and inappropriate use of stimulus dollars.
There is no doubt the Mercer corridor needs transportation improvements but the proposed project is not the right project for improving the flow of transportation between 15th Avenue West and I-5. We need a project that demonstratively strengthens east – west connections between our neighborhoods and Interstate 5, reduces traffic congestion and substantially improves traffic flow and travel times through the Mercer corridor.
The Puget Sound Regional Council is seeking public comments on projects recommended for economic recovery funds. Final approval is expected on March 12.
