Sound Transit to vote on West Seattle light rail

Sound Transit could move to take over properties in West Seattle as it pushes forward with the light rail extension. Fox 13's Sam Campbell live in West Seattle. And Sam, you say there could be a critical update today. Well, that's right. Sound Transit is asking its board of directors to authorize the move today, and if it's approved, it would allow the agency to build on or through dozens of properties across West Seattle. Now, this is an unpopular move, but Sound Transit says it's critical to getting this light rail project off the ground. Sound Transit is looking at 64 so-called acquisitions, but it's only three of those being full ownership. So the agency has $765 million in its pocket to pay for these acquisitions. And those other 60 properties, aside from the three taking full ownership, the other 60 says, Sound Transit says it may need either temporary or permanent quote unquote easement to build tunnels underneath or elevated platforms above them. Now, take a look at this map from the agency. The yellow you see is where the agency is planning to outright buy the properties. And if it cannot find common ground in negotiations, exercise eminent domain. The green squares are a mix of private properties and public land where Sound Transit says it will work with others to minimize any disruptions from construction. And this is a 3D rendering of what the agency thinks the finished product will look like. The light rail extending across the West Seattle Bridge and connecting it with the rest of the rail network, but not everyone is on board with the vision. We have heard from West Seattle residents who are concerned that this project is going to harm environmental conservation efforts, and they also question how many people will actually be riding the train. Now, this is something we're going to continue to follow throughout the morning, and you can catch more on Fox 13 News. But for now, live in West Seattle, Sam Campbell, Fox 13 News.