Seattle Council Approves $1.55 Billion Transport Levy

The Seattle City Council has unanimously approved a $1.55 billion transportation levy to be put on the November ballot, aimed at improving roads, bridges, sidewalks, and bikeways. If passed, it will replace the expiring $930 million 'Move Seattle' levy and will increase the property tax rate to 65 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, costing the median homeowner approximately $499 per year. A last-minute amendment was approved to allocate $20 million for completing the 'missing link' of the Burke-Gilman Trail. The levy also includes funding for Vision Zero and safety projects, and emphasizes accountability and transparency through detailed spending requirements and oversight. Mayor Bruce Harrell supports the proposal, which is expected to fund about 30% of the Seattle Department of Transportation's budget, addressing critical infrastructure needs and aiming to rectify existing inequities.