We call on Sound Transit not to run light rail through the playfield of Mark Twain Elementary

It’s just common sense: Trains and schools do not mix.

On January 26, 2017, the Sound Transit Board of Directors will vote to decide between two route options for the Federal Way Link Extension at the 272nd Street Station. The first is an underground tunnel, and the second is an above-ground, elevated track.

The elevated option would run through the back end of the playfield at Mark Twain Elementary, generating constant train noise and vibration. This would create an adverse impact on the learning environment of our students, distracting them and disrupting their studies.

This option is not acceptable! We support light rail, but not at the expense of our students.

While the elevated option is less expensive to construct, the health of our students’ educational environment should not be traded for cost savings on a balance sheet.

Just as no one would dream of holding class next to train tracks, no train should run through or adjacent to the grounds of an elementary school. Our students, like students everywhere, deserve better – especially when there is another much more viable option available.

Make your voice heard by signing our petition urging the Sound Transit Board of Directors to do the right thing by not putting cost savings ahead of students’ education, by disqualifying the elevated option as a viable one and by approving the tunnel option for the 272nd Street station alignment.

To keep updated after signing the petition, please visit our Facebook page.