Puget Sound Gateway project subject of two open houses
People can learn more about a project to complete state Route 167 between Tacoma and Puyallup at two open houses this week.
The first is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Fife Community Center, 2111 54th Ave. E.
The second is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Puyallup Activity Center, 210 W. Pioneer Ave.
The Puget Sound Gateway project includes completing Route 167 and improving state Route 509.
The Legislature has approved a $933 million version of the project, which the U.S. PIRG Education Fund, a consumer-focused, left-of-center nonprofit organization, earlier this year labeled a boondoggle.
Many supporters, including labor unions, port officials and legislators, believe completing the six-mile stretch would help ease traffic congestion and improve access to the Port of Tacoma.
The state Department of Transportation is “in the process of updating environmental documentation, acquiring right-of- way, obtaining permits and preparing contracts,” according to the agency’s website.
Construction is expected to begin in July 2019 and likely would take a decade or more to complete, based on funding from state lawmakers.
Adam Lynn: 253-597-8644, @TNTAdam
This story was originally published February 27, 2016 at 8:25 AM with the headline "Puget Sound Gateway project subject of two open houses."