Community is polarized by deep bore tunnel, confused by Referendum 1
We asked over 25 folks on Alki if they were for or against the deep bore tunnel under downtown Seattle. While those we feature here voiced their opinions for or against, not all 25 understood Referendum 1, to appear on the Aug. 16 primary ballot, nor said they would vote "yes" or "no" on the referendum. Voting "no" does not kill the tunnel plan, but addresses one aspect of the plan to be reassessed.
Many against the tunnel believe voting "no" serves as a symbolic voice that gives a thumbs down to the project. Many for the tunnel believe voting "yes" is important to move ahead with the project without delay. As is the case in Washington, D.C., and the debt crisis, most here who were asked about the tunnel expressed frustration with the process that has gotten us to this point with the project. Some felt their voices were never heard while others felt it has taken so long to find a solution and we need to "build something now". Some said they were not going to vote in the primaries at all.
Here is the official wording of Referendum 1: