A multimodal transportation project is coming to fruition in eastern King County after receiving investment assistance from private and public partners.
The Eastrail project aims to convert approximately 42 miles of abandoned railway tracks running through the area into walking, running and biking trails.
County Council member Claudia Balducci said the vision for this project had grown from a “long-term” idea to one that was entirely achievable with the help of private investment from companies like REI, Amazon , Facebook and Kaiser-Permanente.
She said the trail will be part of a “robust backbone of non-motorized transportation” that will allow people to commute to work, travel for recreation and get around the county without having to be stuck in traffic. I-405.
The trail will provide access to commercial districts, major employers, health care providers and four Sound Transit East Link stations currently under construction.
Balducci said much of the $7.5 million in funding raised by private partners will be used to restore the historic Wilburton Trestle Rail Bridge which has suffered decay and other degradation after years of neglect.
She also said U.S. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash) earmarked millions more in funding for the federal infrastructure bill that has yet to pass Congress.
The project is expected to be completed by 2026.
