Games Here Too Soon For Tunnel, Says Staff

Metro should not begin bus service in its downtown Seattle tunnel during the Goodwill Games because of the cost and risk, according to a staff report that was to go to the Metro Council today.

Seattle Mayor Norm Rice and council members Paul Kraabel and George Benson had recommended beginning service in July, two months ahead of schedule, to show the world Metro's 1.3-mile, $435 million tunnel.

Executive Director Richard Sandaas said he recommended against beginning scheduled bus service because testing of fire and other life safety systems will not be completed as soon as originally scheduled, which would force the agency to rush training for staff members and emergency personnel.