Bellevue group trying to keep Sound Transit light-rail away from homes

Neighborhood advocates south of downtown Bellevue have taken the unusual step of launching a citywide effort to push Sound Transit's light-rail alignment away from their homes.

Build a Better Bellevue was launched by residents from the Surrey Downs, Enetai, Bellefield Park and Bellecrest areas. Mail is being sent citywide this weekend, seeking donations of $25, $50 or $100, said co-organizer Joe Rosmann.

The group opposes the agency's latest proposal along Bellevue Way Southeast and 112th Avenue Southeast next to Surrey Downs. Members want a route close to I-405, to reduce the risk of train noise reaching their homes. In the face of budget shortages, transit managers have said the 112th route saves $75 million or more that could help Bellevue finance a downtown tunnel.

The East Link line from Seattle to Bellevue and Overlake is to open by 2021, according to the voter-approved ballot measure in 2008. Other lines are planned north to Lynnwood and south to Federal Way.