SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5822

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 of February 22, 2011

Title: An act relating to the state route number 9 Snohomish river bridge project.

Brief Description: Concerning the state route number 9 Snohomish river bridge project.

Sponsors: Senator Hobbs.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/22/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)

Background: State Route (SR) 9 runs south from Sumas Washington, near the Canadian border, to the King County-Snohomish County line. A route development plan, identifying

potential future improvements to the corridor, was completed in 2010 by the Department of Transportation, and includes a recommendation to replace the SR 9 Snohomish River Bridge.

Summary of Bill: The Department of Transportation is directed to begin geotechnical investigation analysis work in the vicinity of the SR 9 Snohomish River Bridge in order to develop a more accurate project cost estimate for replacement of the bridge.

Appropriation: $520,000 is appropriated from the Motor Vehicle Fund for the 2011-13 biennium.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: SR 9 is the only alternative north-south corridor through Snohomish County. We need to start planning for replacement of the SR 9 bridge, the bridge has a big impact on traffic in the corridor. Snohomish County has also formed a transportation benefit district. Bottlenecks at the bridge can be difficult for emergency responders to deal with.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Al Aldrich, SR 9 Coalition; Vern Little, Mayor of Lake Stevens; Tom Hamilton, Councilmember, Snohomish County; Mark Hintz, Fire Commissioner, Snohomish County District 4; Larry Bauman, Snohomish County.