Tukwila to get new train station

A new train station is coming to Tukwila.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced Thursday that he had awarded $7.9 million for the Washington Department of Transportation to construct a new station in Tukwila, replacing the current, temporary wooden structure and creating enhanced intermodal and parking facilities, according to an U.S. Department of Transportation media release.

The station, which serves Amtrak and Sounder, is at 7301 Longacres Way.

LaHood has encouraged Congress to pass the transportation piece of the American Jobs Act, which would fund badly needed projects in Washington State and around the country and put thousands of Americans back to work.

“Station improvements like these will help to strengthen the rail system and economy in the Northwest,” LaHood said. “These projects will create good jobs, and continue to support the growth of passenger rail in the region.”

The improvements will provide enhanced access to the Amtrak Cascades and ST Sounder services with dedicated long-term parking, improved pedestrian and bus connections and passenger amenities including platforms and shelters.

No timeline was announced for construction of the project.

Amtrak’s Cascades Service, which operates between Eugene, Ore. to Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the railroad’s fastest growing routes.

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options, according to the U.S. DOT.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed and frequency of existing service.

Contact Tukwila Reporter Reporter Steve Hunter at shunter@tukwilareporter.com or 253-872-6600, ext. 5052.

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