Hague and Dunn Secure $1.1 Billion for 520 Bridge

The Regional Transportation Investment District (RTID) Executive Board today unanimously adopted a draft plan, a major step toward placing a regional transportation plan on the ballot this November. Metropolitan King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn, a member of the Executive Board, sponsored an amendment that added $300 million to the RTID contribution for the SR 520 bridge replacement project, bringing the total contribution to $1.1 billion.

“The 520 bridge is perhaps the most vulnerable transportation corridor in the region,” Dunn said. “It’s not only vulnerable to earthquakes but also to windstorms, which probably pose a greater threat.”

Councilmember Jane Hague, an RTID Executive Board alternate, has long been a supporter of the Evergreen Point Floating bridge replacement project. Today she supported the motion made by Councilmember Dunn to add funding to the RTID’s contribution. “I am pleased to support additional funding for the SR 520 Bridge,” said Hague. “The additional 37.5 percent funding provides certainty to those commuters in desperate need for a link between their jobs and housing.”

On January 24, Governor Christine Gregoire sent a letter to the RTID Executive Board in which she outlined the funding responsibilities of the various jurisdictions for the 520 bridge project. The letter stated: “I agree that the state is responsible for rebuilding current capacity; that the state and region share responsibility for increased capacity; and the city of Seattle and other beneficiaries are responsible for local improvements and enhancement to mitigation.”

“The cost difference between a six-lane and four-lane bridge is $1.1 billion. With this funding the region has met its responsibility by paying for the increased capacity of a new six lane bridge,” Hague said. “I am hopeful that the state can come up with funding for completion of this important project.”

The Governor’s letter went on to state, “I encourage you to maintain at least $800 million toward replacement of the Evergreen Floating Bridge (SR 520) and hope that you explore the potential for a larger contribution to this vital safety project.”

“We have now met and exceeded the Governor’s expectations for the region’s contribution to the 520 bridge. I am optimistic about the future of transportation in our region,” Dunn said. “The Roads and Transit package is coming together and the region is moving forward with a united voice.”

The RTID Executive Board adopted Councilmember Dunn’s amendment unanimously on its way to adopting an overall draft plan. Over the next two months, the RTID will seek public comment on its draft plan before adopting a final plan in April.