SB 5130 - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 6/05/01)

     Finds and declares that it is in the interest of the state and the traveling public to improve the safety and efficiency of state highways and bridges as expeditiously as possible.  The existing Tacoma Narrows bridge section of the SR 16 corridor located in Pierce and Kitsap counties, among others, is a threat to public health and safety because of congestion and a high number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.  Millions of dollars are lost annually because of travel delays and accidents that cause personal and property damage.  These conditions are the result of insufficient capacity, substandard effective lane widths, lack of emergency shoulders, and no separation of oncoming traffic due to the physical limitation of the existing bridge.

     Declares that "toll bridge" and "toll road" as used in chapter 47.56 RCW does not include a facility that is developed, financed, constructed, reconstructed, upgraded, maintained, or operated under chapter 47.46 RCW and for which funds have been appropriated under RCW 47.46.030, notwithstanding the fact that the facility was originally constructed under this chapter.

     Declares that once bonds issued by the commission for construction of a toll bridge or other toll facility have been paid, redeemed, or defeased in full, the toll bridge or other toll facility may be thereafter included in projects that have been authorized under chapter 47.46 RCW and for which funds have been appropriated under RCW 47.46.030, and tolls on the facilities must be established as provided by chapter 47.46 RCW.

     Repeals RCW 47.56.271.

     Declares that for all reasons, declarations, and facts stated in this act, the legislature declares that an emergency exists and that this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately.