HB 1960-S2.E - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/16/04)

Finds that increased demands on transportation resources require increased efficiency and effectiveness in decision making within urbanized regions. Legislative enactments, public votes on local and state initiatives and referenda, and the number of agencies involved in transportation planning and delivery of services has significantly added to the complexity of transportation programs.

Finds that coordinated planning, investment in, and operation of transportation systems by the state and by local governments, can help ensure an efficient, effective transportation system that ensures mobility and addresses community needs. Improved planning, investment, and operation can also enhance local and state objectives for effective regional transportation strategies and effective coordination between land use and transportation.

Finds that addressing this need for better accountability and coordinated action regarding transportation and comprehensive planning necessitates an innovative approach. Improved integration among transportation programs, particularly in the state's largest metropolitan area is imperative, and will have significant benefit to the citizens of Washington.

Declares it is therefore the policy of the state of Washington to provide the authority for the citizens of the central Puget Sound counties to create a single regional government council, more directly accountable to the public, with adequate resources to develop and encourage implementation of a comprehensive transportation plan within the state's largest urbanized region.