It is incumbent upon you to act immediately to delay the closure of the I-90 center lane and the R8A lane reconfiguration. This is your duty and responsibility both as a representative for Mercer Island and head of the House Transportation Committee. Until all critical traffic and safety issues are carefully and thoroughly reviewed, it would be grossly irresponsible to transfer the rights to I-90 to Sound Transit.

At a Town Hall meeting you held that I attended, you crowed “I am very powerful.” If that power truly exists, it is time that you employ it for the benefit of those whom you represent. Too often, you act against the interests of Mercer Island and the Eastside. I am confused by your dismissive attitude toward constituents.

You blocked HB 1029 that would have provided directly-elected representation on the Sound Transit Board with the contemptuous comment “I am not intrigued by that idea.” Democracy and fair representation do not “intrigue” you? Wow!

Similarly, you blocked HB 2132 that would have provided for fair and accurate vehicle valuation for the RTA tax. What part of fairness and accuracy offends you?

Your constituents are facing a mobility crises, the creation of which you bear a great deal of responsibility. I would ask that you halt the transfer of I-90 to Sound Transit and halt the closure of the I-90 center lanes and the R8A reconfiguration until such time as Sound Transit fully honors its agreements with Mercer Island and all traffic and safety issues are thoroughly studied. Sound Transit has misrepresented this project too long and too often. To date you have been its accomplice and not a faithful representative of your district.

Carv Zwingle

Mercer Island