Transportation

Transportation investments have been made through increased gas taxes passed by the legislature and voters in response to longstanding concerns regarding Washington’s transportation system and its effect on our safety, competitiveness and mobility of people and goods. Surveys show that voters consider a gas tax the most acceptable revenue generating option for transportation. The “Nickel package” in 2003 and the 9.5 cent gas tax increase in 2005 set us on a course for meaningful transportation improvement, but leave significant needs unmet.

Despite these investments, demand for new projects is high while construction costs have increased substantially over the last few years. Industry experts are predicting further price inflation for materials such as steel, asphalt and cement. Sharply increasing construction costs coupled with reduced competition for bids are in some cases forcing project delays. Additionally, the Washington State Department of Transportation does not have the needed flexibility in managing project funds in the same corridor. Unnecessary restrictions exist on transferring budgeted funds between projects in the same corridor when doing so might result in a more efficient use of state dollars.

Finally, a study is underway to study container taxes, user fees and other funding mechanisms to fund freight infrastructure improvements. The Association of Washington Business believes that our transportation infrastructure is crucial to improving our state’s business climate and will continue to work on solutions to our transportation needs while protecting economic development.

Legislative Objectives