University Link Tunnel Under Bid

The folks at Sound Transit must be in good spirits this week--the lowest construction bid for the University Link tunnel was $20 million lower than Sound Transit's original estimate.

The primary election has kept the focus on the proposed Alaskan Way Viaduct tunnel and with good reason. All claims to the contrary, it's far from certain that the tunnel will be built. But let's not forget about Sound Transit--a lack of controversy doesn’t mean it’s not as important as the Viaduct project. The first leg of the light rail system is already changing Seattle, and the University Link is sure to shorten distances in the same way.

This is the third of as many tunnel construction bids to come in under budget for Sound Transit--the agency looks to save around $117 million. Most commentators say that construction companies are bidding low to remain competitive in a tough economy--we guess the recession does have its benefits.