Seattle City Councilmember Rob Saka (District 1), Chair of the Transportation Committee, released the following statement today after Mayor Bruce Harrell unveiled an initial proposed framework for the transportation levy renewal:

“This Transportation Levy is a once-in-a-decade chance to build a safer, better connected and more reliable Seattle.

Over my first 100 days in office, I have helped fill potholes with road maintenance crews, walked along city streets in desperate need of sidewalks, and surveyed the state of Seattle’s bridges. At every turn, I saw SDOT employees hard at work with limited resources doing everything they can with to keep our city safe. Now, it’s time for us elected leaders to step up and make sure they have everything they need to do their jobs better, faster, and more effectively.

I appreciate Mayor Harrell’s work on this framework for the levy and see we are in alignment on many key issues. The Council has a lot of hard work ahead of it to review and improve upon this proposal. I am ready and eager to lead that collaborative effort.”

Today’s announcement is a proposed framework for the levy. The Mayor’s Office is expected to transmit official legislation for the levy renewal in the coming weeks. At that point, it will be reviewed by a select committee chaired by Councilmember Saka. After the Council amends and approves it, the levy renewal will go before voters during this November’s general election.