EVERETT—Ray Stephanson, President & CEO of Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC), joined leaders from across Western Washington on Thursday for the “Build the Damn Trains!” rally outside Union Station. The event highlighted growing regional concern over delays and rising costs associated with Sound Transit 3 (ST3), the voter-approved light rail expansion package.

The gathering took place hours before the Sound Transit Board convened for a retreat on the agency’s projected budget shortfall. According to meeting documents, ST3 expenses have ballooned by as much as $20 billion, delaying initial timelines. The Everett Link Extension, originally slated for 2036, is now projected to open between 2037 and 2041. Stephanson attended on behalf of Snohomish County’s business community and region

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