Governor Inslee Celebrates State Transportation Package

Governor Inslee and key leaders celebrated the recent state funding package Tuesday at the Port of Tacoma.  The reception included the unveiling of Connecting Washington highway signs for the SR 167, I-5 at JBLM, Port of Tacoma Road and Schuster Parkway Trail projects.  These Pierce County projects will significantly improve freight mobility, create economic vitality and jobs, improve safety and provide more transportation choices.

The Connecting Washington package represents the largest single investment in transportation in state history.  It provides jobs, safety and critically-needed traffic relief.  It’s estimated that this $16 billion state investment, coupled with its $15 billion authorization for Sound Transit light rail expansion, will provide more than 200,000 family-wage jobs across our state.  Over $1.4 billion is provided to fix our bridges and help keep our system safe.  And $1 billion is provided to clean transportation elements that help relieve traffic congestion and reduce emissions.  Further funding is provided for important road projects, ferries, freight, rail, state patrol and local transportation improvements.  The package also provides electric vehicle and other alternative fuel incentives.

The Chamber appreciates all of the hard work done by our elected officials who supported this important legislation, especially Rep. Hans Zeiger, for investment in our transportation infrastructure and to ensure freight mobility for our region and the State of Washington.