Seattle train hub draws closer

Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels struck a deal to buy King Street Station from the BNSF railroad for $1, making long-delayed renovation of the facility into a passenger hub more likely.

About a third of the $29 million for the project comes from additional taxes Seattle voters approved earlier this month. It's hoped that the renovation of the main rooms, entry areas and clock tower will help make train travel between Vancouver and Portland more attractive.

Eventually the station could be a key part of a regional train network providing an alternative to clogged highways. This could include the slightly used line in the Eastside suburbs that is slated to be replaced by a bike trail.