HOUSE BILL REPORT

SJM 8019

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.

As Reported by House Committee On:

Transportation

Brief Description: Requesting that a portion of state route number 509 be named the Philip Martin Lelli Memorial Highway.

Sponsors: Senators Conway, Dammeier, Hobbs, Darneille, King, O'Ban, Roach and Hasegawa.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Transportation: 2/23/16, 2/29/16 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requests that a portion of State Route 509 be named the Philip Martin Lelli Memorial Highway.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 21 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Farrell, Vice Chair; Fey, Vice Chair; Moscoso, Vice Chair; Hargrove, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Harmsworth, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Bergquist, Gregerson, Hayes, Hickel, Kochmar, McBride, Moeller, Morris, Ortiz-Self, Pike, Riccelli, Rossetti, Sells, Stambaugh and Tarleton.

Minority Report: Do not pass. Signed by 3 members: Representatives Orcutt, Ranking Minority Member; Shea and Young.

Minority Report: Without recommendation. Signed by 1 member: Representative Rodne.

Staff: Alyssa Ball (786-7140).

Background:

The Washington State Transportation Commission (WSTC) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities, including highways and bridges. The WSTC's policy states: "a naming is done in a thorough and deliberative manner to honor and institute an enduring memory of a person or group of people who have contributed significantly to the well-being of the state or nation and with the widespread support of the people from the area in which the facility is located." In order for the WSTC to consider a proposal, the requesting entity must provide sufficient evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal. This evidence can include a letter or support from the state or federal legislator representing the area encompassing the facility to be renamed. Other evidence that can provide proof of community support includes a resolution passed by other elected bodies in the impacted area, Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) support, and supportive action from a local organization such as a chamber of commerce.

Upon passage of a joint memorial requesting the naming of a facility, the WSTC holds a public hearing prior to taking action. After the WSTC takes final action, the WSDOT designs and installs the appropriate signs.

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Summary of Bill:

The WSTC is requested to commence proceedings to name State Route 509 (SR 509) from the junction with Pacific Avenue to the junction with Taylor Way the Philip Martin Lelli Memorial Highway to honor his dedication and service as a longshoreman, activist, and advocate for the betterment of the Port of Tacoma and Washington.

Copies of the memorial must be forwarded to the Secretary of Transportation, the WSTC, and the WSDOT.

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Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) This would designate the portion of SR 509 that actually runs through the Port of Tacoma. Philip Lelli was the International Longshore and Warehouse Union president off and on for several decades. He was an architect of the modern Port of Tacoma and was instrumental in growing the Port's business. He traveled the world actively recruiting large shipping lines to bring their business to the Port of Tacoma. He was also a very active member of the community in Tacoma. Naming SR 509 after him would be a good way to honor his legacy.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Senator Conway, prime sponsor; Dick Marzano, Port of Tacoma; Gordon Baxter and Todd Iverson, International Longshore and Warehouse Union; and Rod Magden.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.