Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
HB 1575
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Requiring a state route number 2 route development plan.
Sponsors: Representatives Sells, McCoy, Kristiansen, Hope, Pearson, Dunshee and Liias.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/4/09
Staff: Christie Parker (786-7322)
Background:
Route Development Plans (RDPs) are planning studies that serve to create a long-term vision for a corridor. Within the study area, existing and future transportation-related problems are identified and solutions are proposed. Corridor lengths may vary from a few miles to an entire highway route and proposed solutions may include several alternatives. These plans are part of the Washington State Department of Transportation long-range planning program and are intended to support local jurisdictions in implementation of the Growth Management Act.
The RDPs are sometimes called "Corridor Planning Studies." The studies include analysis of operating conditions, environmental issues, population and land use changes, customer needs, as well as right-of-way and other issues affecting the future of a state highway and its neighbors. The RDPs do contain a list of potential safety and mobility improvements, but usually do not provide a budget, project designs or complete cost estimates required to build the improvements. The RDPs can be used by local jurisdictions to solicit funding for community supported and prioritized projects.
United States Route 2 extends for 323 miles in the state of Washington and then continues into Idaho; the terminus of the western segment of US Route 2 is in Michigan. A RDP for 47 miles of US Route 2 in Washington was completed in November 2007. The study began at mile post 3.5 and ended at mile post 50. The study identified 56 projects that would improve the route at a cost in excess of $1 billion.
Summary of Bill:
The bill provides $400,000 for a RDP on US Route 2 from the Port of Everett/Naval Station to the State Route 9 interchange near the city of Snohomish. The act expires July 1, 2011.
Appropriation: $400,000 from the Multimodal Transportation Account.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.