Sound Transit proposes light rail operation agreement

Seattle's Sound Transit announced a proposed agreement under which King County Metro would operate and maintain Sound Transit's Central Link light rail system. The agreement will be considered by the Sound Transit Board and the King County Council. Under its provisions, Sound Transit would pay Metro approximately $124 million for the first five years after the system opens. Also included in the agreement are a number of mechanisms for Sound Transit to closely monitor Metro's performance. It requires Metro to operate within a budget that cannot be exceeded without prior approval from Sound Transit and is subject to regular outside performance and financial audits. Sound Transit can opt out of the agreement in the event of unacceptable performance.