BILL REQ. #:  S-2197.2 

READ FIRST TIME 03/05/07.   

     AN ACT Relating to a feasibility study on commuter rail service from Everett east; creating new sections; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   (1) The department of transportation shall conduct a feasibility study to provide information on whether commuter rail service between Everett and Index can be a meaningful component of the region's future transportation system. The study must:
     (a) Assess how many riders might be attracted to commuter rail service in this region;
     (b) Identify and evaluate which locations along state route number 2 would most benefit from commuter rail service;
     (c) Identify and evaluate potential station sites;
     (d) Estimate costs for securing rights and constructing platforms and stations;
     (e) Provide a general analysis of the ability of the Everett to Index rail section to accommodate commuter rail service, the effect of this service on existing and planned rail freight operations, and an estimate of how tourism in the region might be affected.
     (2) The department shall deliver a report of this feasibility study to the transportation committees of the house of representatives and senate by February 1, 2008.
     (3) This section expires December 31, 2008.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   If specific funding for the purposes of this act, referencing this act by bill or chapter number, is not provided by June 30, 2007, in the omnibus transportation appropriations act, this act is null and void.